Teachers from a Harold Hill school cycled almost 100 miles around Essex to raise �1,500 for pupils to go on educational trips.

Eleven teachers, staff and friends of Dycorts School, for children with special needs, took to their bicycles on Sunday for the challenge

Peter Osborne, assistant headteacher at the school in Settle Road, said: “We have been trying to raise money at school to go towards a fund for additional learning opportunities beyond the normal curriculum to develop the children’s independence and social skills. The trips would be a chance for them to go out in the community and take part in activities.”

The group set off at 9am and completed the ride eight hours later at 5pm after cycling from Billericay Sports Centre, to Kelvedon Hatch, Stapleford Abbots, Thaxted, Great Sampford, Chelmsford, Hanningfield, Stock, and back to Billericay.

Mr Osborne said: “It wasn’t the best weather on Sunday as it was raining all day, but we struggled on and raised �1,500 as a result.

“It was cold and wet, so it was hard work, but it was worth it for the children’s benefit at the end of the day. That’s what kept us going.

“Some of the teachers had trained together, while some had trained on their own, but there were still quite a few sore legs in school on the Monday.”

He added: “We will also be receiving a contribution from Blakes Golf Club, in North Weald, whose members have pledged money towards the fund.”