A GROUP of cyclists is set to raise more than £10,000 for the Royal British Legion after completing a gruelling ride from London to Paris.

The 10-man team finished the British Legion’s four-day Pedal to Paris challenge early in September.

One of the riders, Paul Cox, explained that the friends’ ages ranged from 25 to 62 and that although the Royal British Legion supported them “very well” it was by no means an easy feat to finish the ride.

He added that fundraising events held before and after the ride had helped the group ensure they were well on track to exceed their ambitous target.

The crew included Martin Smith, Simon Blogg, Richard Hatcher, Steve Joiner, Chris Clarke, Grahame Cowlishaw, John Young, Richard Young, Paul Cox and Chris Cox.

The cyclists undertook much of their training at Alton’s Energique Health Club and Spa and benefited from the help and encouragement of the gym’s Chris Royston.