A GROUP of cyclists were inspired by the death of a work mate to raise thousands for a local cancer charity.

In a bid to keep the memory of cancer victim Mick Clark alive, 11 colleagues cycled 104 miles along the coast and castles route, between Berwick and Newcastle, to raise £5,500 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

The 47-year-old dad-of-two, of Alnwick, passed away in February and his family chose the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation to benefit from his fellow Northumbrian Water employees’ fundraising efforts.

Mick’s wife, Linda, and daughters Chelsea, 20, and Hollie, 17, wanted it to be a “thank you” for the medical care Mick received.

Chelsea, said: “When my dad was in the Freeman Hospital we knew he was in good hands and that he would receive the best treatment possible. In 2005 he received first-class care when he had his triple heart bypass surgery.

“We were overwhelmed when Graeme and his colleagues organised the bike ride as this confirmed what a popular character my dad was. We hope that raising this money for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation will help others.”

Graeme Telford, who lives in Washington, organised the two-day bike ride. He said: “Mick is a big miss to lots of people, so to be able to keep his memory alive while raising thousands of pounds for such a good cause is great.”