TWO Winchester dads have cycled hundreds of miles to raise money for a new classroom.

The pair, Jim Blackburn and Darren Collins, both parents of St Bede Primary School pupils, teamed up to to take on 370 miles over five days.

The bike ride began at the St Bede Museum in Jarrow, near Newcastle, and ended in style with the whole school greeting the cyclists as they returned to the school on Monday morning.

A special escort was provided during the final stage by some of the Year 6 pupils and head teacher Mrs Duck.

The bike ride is part of a new project raising funds for a new ‘eco-classroom’, which the school intends to use for wraparound care, as a community space and as an extra teaching and learning resource.

Following the fundraiser, the children have also been encouraged to take part in their own sponsored bike/scooter rides.

Ms Duck said: “We are very grateful for the fundraising efforts of Darren and Jim and also the support from the whole school community. We are delighted to be part of a project that helps to promote physical activity, acknowledges the historical foundations of our school and raises funds for the school in a creative and unifying manner.”

To donate, visit mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/jimblackburn2.