Motivated Nelson and Colne College staff have travelled more than 1,900 miles in a gruelling 24 hour cycle challenge for Lancashire Mind.

This year’s Health and Wellbeing Challenge saw 44 lecturers and support staff join together at Swinden Playing Fields, in Barrowford, to travel the distance from Lands’ End to John O Groats and back again in just one day.

Four members of staff – Craig Midgley, Alexis Walker, Jason Benn, and Richie Watts – showed true determination and resilience by cycling for the full 24 hours in varying weather conditions, while other participants pledged a distance they felt they could achieve. Around £485 has been raised so far, with sponsorship money still being collected.

Cycle Sport Pendle supported the challenge by providing the facility and bikes for free.

Engineering lecturer and 24 hour cyclist Craig said: “We were inspired by Richie, who has recently completed the Lands’ End to John O Groats challenge. It was tough, but the support we have all received has been brilliant.

“By 5.15am we had travelled the distance from Lands’ End to John O Groats and back again, and we carried on from there.”

Principal Amanda Melton added: “Every year the Nelson and Colne College family join together to undertake a physical challenge for a chosen charity.

“This year’s cycle challenge once again showed true team spirit and the considerable efforts our staff will go to in doing something exceptional. It was not just cycling enthusiasts taking part, but staff of all abilities.

“We must also extend our thanks to Cycle Sport Pendle for making the track available to us – we are so lucky to have such a fantastic facility on our doorstep.”

Lancashire Mind is the County’s leading mental health and mental wellbeing charity.

A Lancashire Mind spokesman said: It’s impressive that Nelson and Colne College are such strong advocates of wellbeing in the local community. With increasing stresses in our modern society and the persistence of mental health discrimination, looking after our wellbeing is more important than ever.

“We’re really grateful that Lancashire Mind was chosen as the beneficiary of this year’s Health and Wellbeing Challenge. We have a vision for Lancashire where each and every person is able to achieve and maintain mental wellbeing. The large amount of money raised will be a real boost to our projects across the county, including our support networks, young peoples’ services and crisis prevention. Thank you Nelson and Colne College!”

To make a donation visit www.justgiving.com/Nelson-and-Colne-College2