A group of cyclists have completed a charity bike ride from Rome to Stockton-on-Tees.

Over the 23-day ride, they covered 1,240 miles, traversed five countries and climbed heights of up to 8,000ft in the Swiss Alps.

Led by Martin Flynn, 59, the team of 30 family members and friends set off from the Colosseum in Rome on August 31 and arrived home on September 22, ending at the Stockton Arms Hotel.

Along the way, the group has been raising money for Cancer Research UK, a cause that is close to all of the riders, but in particular two of the younger members who have had their cancer diagnosis and been successfully treated for the disease.

(Image: Cancer Research UK)

Martin Flynn, who organised the challenge, said: "It's been epic, exhilarating and very tough, but worth every moment that we put into it.

"We would like to thank our support teams for their incredible help.

"Without them, this challenge wouldn’t have been possible.

"A special thank you to Maison Thompson who was our support driver along the route and brought us safely to home sweet home in Stockton-on-Tees.

"It has been a remarkable journey, that we will talk about for years and we have raised a great amount of money to help beat cancer."

The cyclists varied in ability and age, with the youngest being 19 years old and the most senior 64.

Among the group, five members took part in the full challenge, while others joined up at different sections of the ride, all pushing their limits for the cause.

The bike ride was supported by Last Mile Logistics and Enterprise Car Hire (Stockton-on-Tees).

Throughout the journey, a support van and driver ensured their safety and comfort and Last Mile Logistics were able to provide transport assistance.

Cancer Research UK spokesperson for the North East, Lisa Millett, said: "Together, we are beating cancer.

"Advances are all thanks to fundraisers like Martin and the team, who have shown extraordinary dedication to raising money."

The group has so far raised around £16,400 for Cancer Research UK.