Aldbourne to Paris for intrepid team of cyclists

An intrepid team of cyclists is shown setting off from Aldbourne to pedal their way to Paris in France to raise money for charity.
The team departed Aldbourne at 9am on Wednesday, August 8, for the approximately 360-mile, four day trip.
They crossed from Dover to Calais and spent three nights under canvas and one night in a proper bed in Paris.
The venture was led by 37-year-old Matt Reynolds, who said: “I decided that I wanted to do something to raise money for Alzheimer’s support as a family member is currently suffering from the condition.
“I’ve previously jumped from a plane for Breast Cancer as my mother had cancer but the furtherst I’ve cycled for the past 20 years is to the local shop.
“I mentioned what I was doing to a few friends and, before long, they committed to joining me on my journey.”
Also taking part were Mr Reynolds’ friends Ashley Smith, Matt Phillips, Tom Connolly, Adam Elkins, David Newham, Ed Murray, Tim Farrow and Steve Morris.
He added: “As the team grew we decided to add two more charities, one being the local school and the other is Naomi House, to which some of us had already contributed to in the past.
Local businesses including The Crown pub, ND Services, West Street Motors and Barnes Travel pitched in with funding and practical support for the trip.
The technical support was needed, too - Mr Reynolds said: “Adam’s bike disintegrated en route so it was lucky we had a spare. Other than that it went pretty smoothly, although we did get lost once or twice!
“We’d really like to thank all our sponsors, both individuals and firms.”
The team arrived back to a huge welcome home party at The Crown, where around 120 well wishers had gathered.
The group has almost reached its £4,500 target.
If you would like to contribute, go to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/old_bourne_boys2paris