A TEAM of airmen took part in a sponsored coast-to-coast cycle ride to help a stricken comrade.

The six-strong group from RAF Leeming rode from Whitehaven to Sunderland to raise money for retired Squad-ron Leader Mike Wilson, who suffered a brain stem stroke in 2003.

The £590 raised will aid in his rehabilitation.

Organised by Flight Lieutenant Ant Fagg, the officer commanding Training Development Flight, the event took place over two days with the cyclists braving howling winds and lashing rain.

The cheque was collected by Squadron Leader Gus Leighton, who is cycling to the UK's 34 RAF stations which are helping the cause.