MEMBERS of the Rotary Club got on their bikes for charity recently.

A 234-mile sponsored bike ride saw almost £10,000 raised by The Rotary Club of Darlington.

The efforts of 14 members and a support crew of three mean that £9,500 can be distributed to a variety of good causes via the club’s charitable trust.

The ride, which began in Glasgow and ended in Penrith, was sponsored by local businesses including Sherwoods Ltd and Bikesport.

It took participants, who also raised sponsorship money, around six months to train for the race.

They cycled more than 30 miles three times a week in a bid to prepare for the gruelling charity challenge.

The team’s trainer, Nigel Little, said: “High winds gusting to 50mph and heavy rain made it more challenging than our previous two rides and we were glad to reach Penrith.

“But I don’t think we did too badly for a bunch of chaps with an average age of 62.”

The ride was part of the club’s regular programme of charitable events which also includes further cycling challenges, golf tournaments, raffles and stalls.

The money raised will be distributed to a variety of charities, with the club having recently fundraised to help the Nepal Earthquake Appeal.

To support the club’s efforts or make a donation, uk.virginmoneygiving.com/charities/TheDarlingtonRotaryClubCharitableTrust.