Paris is capital stop for riders

Eager cyclists took to the roads for a continental start to Peterborough-based Thomas Cook’s 175th anniversary celebrations. Eighty riders set out on the Peterborough to Paris challenge - in recognition of the travel company’s first trip to Europe in 1855.

The ride was hosted by Thomas Cook’s Children’s Charity and the 80 participantswhocrossedcountyand country borders have helped raise a staggering £100,000.

Now the firm is looking for goodcausesthatcouldbenefit fromdonationsfromthemoney raised.

A spokeswoman for the Bretton- based f i rm said: “The majority of participants – including retail staff, senior management and third party sponsors - took part on day onecovering the first 65 miles fromtheThomasCookoffices in Peterborough to Bletchley.

“Setting off at 9am, the route guided the cyclists through Elton, Steeple Gidding, Kimbolton, Riseley, Harrold, TurveyandCranfield before arriving into Bletchley at 6pmforawell-deservedcelebratory barbecue.

“Thirteenavidcyclistscontinued the challenge for a further five days, arriving in the French capital yesterday.”

Bringing the total amount to £100,000, Thomas Cook matched the money raised through corporate deals.

The spokeswoman said: “With the local community in mind, Thomas Cook invites charitable causes to get in touch with a grant application for support.”

For details see www.thomascookchildrenscharity. com

Thomas Cook cyclists celebrate the completion of their challenge at the foot of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.