EMPLOYEES from a Newton Aycliffe factory completed a gruelling bike ride to raise almost £2,500 for a school for children with special needs.

The 12 staff from the 3M factory in Aycliffe covered a 140-mile coast-to-coast route in aid of Rosebank School, in Ferryhill.

The team's journey involved pedalling up and down the highest passes in the Lake District, including Kirkstone Pass, at 1,489ft, Hardknott Pass, 1,291ft, and Wrynose Pass at 1,281ft.

The marathon ride took the group two days to complete.

Team organiser Paul Richardson said: "This was our seventh annual cycle marathon and the hardest route yet.

"It was very tough going, but worth it to have collected so much for a good cause, thanks to the great backing we received from colleagues at the site."

Rosebank School was also the team's chosen charity last year.

Headteacher Sue Stubbs said the the school was delighted with the support it had received.

"It is wonderful news for us and all the riders did amazingly well," she said.

"We would like to use the funds to buy new outdoor equipment, such as specially adapted bikes that children with a disability can access."

3M, a diversified technology company, makes respiratory protection products and environmental protection materials at the Heighington Lane factory.