RICHMOND Cycling Club has awarded its prestigious Chairman’s award to three Richmond School cyclists, who set themselves demanding challenges and raised more than £4,800 for the Butterwick Hospice.

Each year, Richmond Cycling Club hosts an awards’ ceremony.

The majority of the awards are based around a series of time trials held during the summer months.

However, the Chairman’s Award stands out as being awarded at the discretion of the Chairman to a club member, or members, who have done something very special.

Gordon Love, Chairman, had no hesitation in awarding the accolade to brothers Andrew and James Lunn and their friend Marcus Weston, who demonstrated bravery, compassion and sheer determination to do something incredibly special for their community.

Andrew and James cycled 300 miles, from Richmond Surrey to Richmond North Yorkshire in just five days. Meanwhile, Marcus, who suffers with Cardio Facio Cutaneous Syndrome, cycled 30 miles, one each day, on his adapted tricycle.

Mr Love said: “Andrew and James are regular attendees of our time trials, so we know them quite well. They cycled from Richmond to Richmond, which is a very impressive achievement for two youngsters.

"We also learnt of their friend Marcus’ fantastic achievement to cycle 30 miles on his adapted tricycle. Together, they raised a considerable amount of money for the Butterwick Hospice.

"Myself and the other club members were inspired by their collective achievement and so, for the first time, the award has gone to junior members of the club.”

All three boys are members of Richmond Cycling Club.

Its members range from cyclists who enjoy leisurely rides around the Dales, to world record holders. This year, members have cycled on 200 mile rides in one day to climbing the equivalent of Mount Everest.