COLLEGE staff have completed a gruelling Coast-to-Coast cycle ride in aid of charity.

A dozen staff members from Derwentside College in Consett followed a route from Whitehaven to Tynemouth and raised £500 for Breast Cancer Care.

The new Consett Campus straddles the long-range cycle route and many cyclists are often seen passing by.

Members volunteered to complete the 146-mile course in three days - passing through the Lake District, over the Pennines before their final day downhill.

Richard Oliver, vice-principal of finance and resources and organiser of the expedition, said: "The general consensus of the team was that the event was a challenging, but rewarding experience.

"We are already considering the next challenge for next year, although we are looking for an area with fewer hills."