A group of Thames Ditton fitness fanatics hopped on their bicycles and peddled 60 miles to raise money for two charities.

For the third years running, Colets Health and Fitness Club members and staff rode from capital to coast in aid of Norwood and the Down’s Syndrome Association, taking the total raised to £50,000.

Starting at the St Nicholas Road health and fitness club, the group of 30 cyclists embarked on the journey to Brighton, with the fastest rider finishing the course in three hours and 50 minutes.

Participant Julie Davidson said the yearly event on Sunday, June 22 did not disappoint.

She said: "Plenty of sunshine, stunning scenery and a great team spirit all came together to create an amazing day out.

"Cycling the 60 miles from Colets to Hove is never an easy challenge, but the sense of achievement and camaraderie that I feel when crossing the finish line makes all the pedalling worth it."

Damian Wood, deputy gym manager and cycle ride organiser, said all participants crossed the finish line with a smile on their face.

He said: "This is an amazing accomplishment from Team Colets and next year we will be organising our own charity ride starting and finishing a Colets which is very exciting."