THE freedom of the roads has inspired two Durham prison officers to raise £3,500 for a local cancer charity.

The pedal-pushing officers, Don Turpin and Mark Fowler, hit their target after completing the 700 miles from Land's End to John O'Groats.

The pair decided to donate their sponsorship money to the Macmillan Cancer Relief County Durham Appeal.

Macmillan is well on the way to raising £600,000 to improve services and support for people with cancer, their families and carers.

It will increase the number of specialist palliative care consultants and Macmillan nurses serving County Durham, which has fewer services than most other counties in England.

Caroline Peacock, co-manager of the County Durham appeal, said: "What a fantastic achievement to cycle so far for a good cause.

"We are very honoured and grateful that these two gentlemen decided to support our appeal."

* For more information about the Macmillan appeal or to contact the fundraising team, call 0191-378 1188.