More than £25,000 raised by BTP3DOTE 2016 cycling challenge

You might be forgiven thinking Leicester City winning the Premier League was the only big sports story this Bank Holiday Weekend – but you would be wrong.

Ninety cyclists set off on an amazing journey that took them all around the coast of mainland Britain.

The Three Days on the Edge (3DotE) charity bike ride kicked off on Saturday and saw British Transport Police (BTP) officers and staff pedal distances of up to 300 miles over the three days, along with friends, family and rail industry colleagues. The event started at 7.30am, with the last riders completing the challenge by 9pm Monday.

All the riders completed their stages in the allotted time, despite some very challenging weather conditions on certain routes.

The age of riders raged from mid-twenties to mid-sixties and more than 90 people in 15 teams cycled with assistance from the support team, made up of more than 25 volunteers.

The riders from BTP ranged from constables up to Deputy Chief Constable, as well as police staff.

So far BTP3DotE has raised more than £25,000 of which at least £20,000 will be distributed to the three nominated charities (Victim Support, Mind and The Railway Benefit Fund). The remainder will go to charities chosen by individual riders.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Newton, who was one of the 90 riders, said: “A big thank you to everyone involved in this event. It’s been a very tough but enjoyable weekend. BTP3DotE is a fantastic example of how this kind of challenge brings out the best in our people. Not only did they show real grit and determination, but also a great willingness to work as a team, with new friendships being formed along the way.

“Well done to all the cyclists who took part this weekend and a massive thanks to all those who supported the team through sponsorship and fundraising. Special thanks goes to the crew of volunteers who kept the teams going with their excellent organisation, motivation and roadside support.”