AN energetic cyclist, who saddled up for the Bromsgrove bikeathon has been awarded for his fundraising efforts.

John Mitchell, from Bentley, near Bromsgrove, was the top individual fundraiser at the annual event, collecting over £900 for the Leukaemia Research Fund.

He was rewarded with a watch, generously donated by Cupitt Jewellers in The Strand, Bromsgrove.

More than 400 energetic townsfolk turned out, in bad weather, to take part in the 26-mile trek at Hanbury, to raise much-needed cash for the cancer charity.

Other townsfolk were rewarded for their fundraising efforts, including Bromsgrove girl Georgina Weston, who despite only being eight-years-old completed the countryside course and raised £127.

She was presented with a sweatshirt and a commemorative teddy, while Stoke Prior's Harris Brush Works' team of ten picked up bottles of wine for their hard work.

Chairman for the Bromsgrove Leukaemia Research Fund, Nicole Harris, said: "We have been overwhelmed by the response this year.

"Everything went against us: we had the foot and mouth crisis and atrocious weather, but still people turned out to complete the course - and we have now raised more than £19,000.

"I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who took part in the bikeathon."

There is still time to get your sponsorship money in, however if you have lost you form, or for any other enquires, then call (01527) 878493 as soon as possible..