By Sam Jackson

AN Evesham cyclist has helped raise more than £16,000 for a blood cancer charity after organising and completing a coast-to-coast cycling challenge.

Adam Flood, along with 19 fellow riders, completed the four-day, 320-mile route when they crossed the finish line at the Britannia Pier in Great Yarmouth on Easter Monday.

The group were riding in aid of Delete Blood Cancer UK, a charity that enables people to sign up to become a blood stem cell donor for free, instead of having to pay the usual cost of £40.

The amount of money raised will mean 400 new people can register to be donors and could save 20 lives over the next few years.

Mr Flood said: “I’m really proud of everybody involved to be honest.

“Seeing all the blokes come together and help each other get through it was really nice.

“Every morning everyone got back on the saddle with injuries and strains but no one was miserable or grumpy.

“Crossing the finish line was great; there was a huge fanfare when we arrived.

“I’d do it again tomorrow and we are already discussing the next one.”

The group started their long journey at the Royal Pier in Aberystwyth on Good Friday and continued through Ceredigion, Powys, Shropshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire and Norfolk.

The riders had to deal with many issues along the way, including punctures, broken bicycle clips and challenging headwinds.

However, a strong team ethic and encouragement from passers-by and on social media spurred the group on and ensured every rider finished the route.

Deirdra Taylor, director of communications and donor relations at Delete Blood Cancer UK, was full of praise for the cyclists.

She said: “While most people were having a rest at the weekend, the team were cycling their legs off to save lives.

“All of the money they raised will go towards the registration costs of new potential lifesavers.

“We are so grateful for the team for embarking on this incredible challenge and hope they now have a well-deserved rest.”

You can still donate to Delete Blood Cancer UK by texting “CTWE60” followed by £2, £5 or £10, or by visiting https://www.justgiving.com/c2cdbcuk/ or give.everydayhero.com/uk/C2CforDBCUK.