A TEAM of 20 cyclists braved the swamplands and jungles of Mexico to raise up to £100,000 for the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust.

Joining the adventure were GP Peter Jones and Sport England official Geoff Hughes, both from Sedgefield, County Durham, who believe their contribution to the charity has topped £10,000

The 400-mile ride took them into the thin atmosphere of Mexico's Sierra Madre mountains

During their nine-day journey, they endured almost continuous rain, high humidity, mosquito and numerous other insect attacks, apart from being chased by dogs as they pedalled through the interior villages.

In addition, they had to camp overnight in the rough, and survived the adventure on a staple but nourishing diet prepared by their support party cooks.

Dr Jones said one of the highlights of the adventure was arriving in Puerto Escondido Bay, at the finishing post.

"We just dropped our bikes and as one ran across the sand to splash in the warm Pacific", he said.

Delighted that he had completed the journey, Dr Jones added: "This was the most gruelling but exhilarating experience of my life. The whole trip was a lot harder than I had expected and to complete it gave me a great feeling of achievement.

For Dr Jones, another highlight was the fulfilment of a promise to shave off his beard.

This was carried out by two girls at a farewell Mexican barbecue in sedgefield, and, thanks to sponsorship from other team members, raised another £400.