CYCLISTS pushed themselves to the limit when they tackled a 24-hour cycling challenge to raise money for two charities.

A team of 35 made up of firefighters and members of Devizes Town Cycling Club rode to all 24 of Dorset And Wiltshire Fire And Rescue Service’s fire stations in Wiltshire and Swindon in one day.

They left Devizes Fire Station at noon on Friday, cheered on by former mayor Jane Burton who, before they leave, will present her own cheque to the Fire Fighters Charity.

It is the third time that firefighter Mike Cleaver has organised the 195-mile ride to raise money for the Fire Fighters Charity and the Epilepsy Society. His young daughter Poppy suffers from epilepsy and he is keen to raise money for the charity that supports his family.

They left Devizes Fire Station at noon on Friday, cheered on by former mayor Jane Burton who, present her own cheque for £2,500 to the Fire Fighters Charity.

DTCC spokesman Tim Pigott said: "We were delighted 27 riders completed the entire course, arriving with a fire engine escort into Devizes at noon on Saturday.

"Among the highlights were the careful negotiation of a rather surprised tawny owl in the small hours on a road outside Ramsbury and the incredible support and kindness of fire service staff and friends in providing food, drink, shelter and support vehicles."

The route took in Devizes, Melksham, Corsham, Bradford on Avon, Trowbridge, Westbury, Warminster, Mere, Tisbury, Wilton, Salisbury, Amesbury, Ludgershall, Pewsey, Marlborough, Ramsbury, Stratton, Swindon, Westlea, Royal Wootton Bassett, Cricklade, Malmesbury, Chippenham and Calne, before heading back to Devizes.

To support the team go to uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/dwfirewithdevizestowncyclingclub