WORKERS from a Ryedale firm have completed a cycling challenge for Macmillan Cancer Support after being motivated by a colleague who is suffering from cancer.

Staff members from Russell (Kirkbymoorside Ltd), which has its head office in Old Malton, cycled the Way of the Roses from Morecambe to Bridlington over two days in June.

Scott McMillan, one of the team members, said the catalyst for the ride was staff affected by cancer, in particular one colleague, based at the Ripon branch, who had served the company for 30 years and was currently battling myeloma.

"The ride was completed over two days, with 16 people participating, the majority of them employees but also friends and family," he said.

"The forecast for the weekend was really poor mid-week, but were very lucky that the rain only hit the east coast on Saturday."

Scott said a support van, as well as family members helped long the way with refreshments.

"We met at our Boroughbridge depot on the Saturday evening, where a barbecue was organised with friends, family and customers and all the proceeds from the barbecue were put towards the final total. We then set off from Boroughbridge on the Sunday, in the rain but only for a short period, and plain sailing all the way to Bridlington."

Scott said two significant donations had been made by a local farmer and York District Round Table at £500 each.

"The bike ride which was a great success and we managed to raise more than £8,000," he said. "We would like to thank everyone who took part and all those who supported us."