DEAR EDITOR -- The organisers of the 2001 North Worcestershire Bikeathon would like to thank everyone who helped to make last month's event such a success.

At one time it seemed that it would have to be cancelled because of the effects of the foot and mouth outbreak, but thanks to the National Trust at Hanbury Hall we were able to go ahead. We were unable to have the 10-mile route for safety reasons but hope to restore it next year.

We would particularly like to thank our sponsors, NatWest Bank and Compuccinos internet bistro bar, Speed Cycles, Baylis's, Halfords and other shops for taking entries. Also West Mercia Police, St John Ambulance and all those people including North Worcestershire Rotary who helped on the day, and of course the Advertiser/Messenger for promoting the event so well.

Finally, we shouldn't forget the 400 cyclists who came from Bromsgrove, the rest of Worcestershire and beyond.

They pledged in excess of £15,000 on the day. This should result in a total of around £18,000 being raised for the Leukaemia Research Fund.

Thank you everyone for your support.

Sue Knoll,

Worcestershire Bikeathon secretary,

27, Hampton Avenue,

Bromsgrove.