FRIENDS from a factory completed a bike ride across England yesterday to raise money for a children's cancer charity.

Riders from Hathaway Roofing, in Tindale Crescent, Bishop Auckland, took part in the three-day coast-to-coast challenge, cycling from Whitehaven to Sunderland.

They collected money for the North of England Children's Cancer Research Fund, which treats and cares for children suffering from various forms of cancer.

Staff from the company have taken part in cycle rides for the charity since 1988.

Managing director Ken Ripley said he was pleased that the team had once again taken up the challenge.

He said: "This year we are delighted to be completing the coast-to-coast event and hope to raise as much money as possible."

He also thanked Leaseway Vehicle Rental Ltd, from Dunston, who supplied free back-up vehicles for the riders.

The riders who took part were David Brannan, Colin Brannan, Ian Henderson, Robin McCloud, Paul Hughes, Steven Watson, Andrew Hutchinson, Craig Hollings, Andrew Armstrong, Michael Tray, Mark Brown and Barry Green.