BIKE-CRIKEY! Sixth formers at a Poulton school have raised hundreds of pounds for charity using pedal power to go the extra mile.

A group of 14 sixth formers from Baines Sixth Form, Highcross Road, put their stamina to the test with a 140-mile bikeathon from Bridlington, on the east coast, to Blackpool to raise cash for cancer charity Fylde Christie's.

The youngsters set off on the Friday, taking in York, Harrogate, Skipton and Clitheroe before arriving tired but triumphant at Central Pier, Blackpool, on Sunday afternoon.

Around 100 family, friends and teachers and representatives from Fylde Christie's welcomed the group home under sunny skies.

Bikeathon co-ordinator and assistant head of Baines sixth form, Andy Cotterall, and head of languages Geoff Mates also cycled in the event, and sixth form head Mrs Carol Robinson drove the team's support vehicle.

Mr Cotterall said students chose to raise money for Fylde Christie's because two former students had been treated at Christie Hospital in recent years.

He added: "We haven't got all the money in yet but we are hoping to raise more than £2,000. It was a 'first' for everybody, but it went very well."

The event was also sponsored by Friends of Baines, and local businesses Glasdon and Burtons Biscuits.