WHEN former policeman Alan Ripley fell ill, he provided the inspiration for a group of cyclists to raise money for charity - but he died before the money could be handed over.

Mr Ripley, who died a few weeks ago, was in everyone's thoughts as £750 was presented to two charities on Tuesday night.

Three months ago, members of Worsthorne Mountain Bike Club - including several bobbies - joined some of Mr Ripley's friends and former colleagues for a 20-mile sponsored ride, arranged at the request of Mr Ripley's wife, Shelagh.

Mr Ripley died in hospice after suffering from cancer and motor neurone disease - so it was for the appropriate charities that the cash was raised.

The bikers presented cheques to the Burnley hospice fund and the Motor Neurone Disease Society. Around 30 cyclists completed the circular ride from Towneley Hall to Todmorden.

Anyone interested in joining the Worsthorne club can ring the secretary on 413397, or just turn up at meetings, which are held at the village's Crooked Billet Inn at 7pm every Tuesday (over-17s only).

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