CHARITY cyclists handed a cheque for more than £1,000 to a North-East Hospice yesterday.

Five Cleveland Police officers and a friend cycled 242 miles from St Bees Head, in Cumbria, to Saltburn, east Cleveland, to raise the cash for Teesside Hospice.

They were PC Colin Hill, based at Thornaby, Sergeant Peter Chadwick, from Billingham, PCs Ian Robson, of the traffic department, Steve Ladyman, of Stockton, Steve Brisley, of Thornaby, and civilian John Russell - a friend of PC Robson.

The group, who have completed a coast to coast ride every year since 1998, said this year's ride was one of the most arduous they have faced.

During the trip they encountered rain, bogs, mountains and snow.