A 520-mile cycle ride across France has raised more than £5,000 for Sam Beare Hospice.

The idea to do the gruelling bike ride came from Anne Gray, a fitness instructor at David Lloyd, who organised the challenge despite a cancer diagnosis.

The 12 members of the Pink Mohican team cycled from Caen to Beaune in groups of four on steep roads and in all weather conditions.

Unfortunately Anne was unable to take part in the event she initiated because she is currently being cared for by Woking and Sam Beare Hospices.

Rachel Hill, director of clinical services at the hospice, said: “Anne is an inspiration to us all and I’m sad she can’t be here herself today to see just how much her hard work and continued fundraising means to the hospice.

“We’re so grateful to Anne, her husband and all her friends. Also our thanks go to Sharon Taylor at David Lloyd Brooklands, who’s always on hand to help, and to all at the gym for supporting our cause.”

The Pink Mohicans team recently handed the cheque to the hospice and vowed to raise more cash through cake sales and specially arranged spin-a-thons.