MORE than 20 cyclists from Chiddingfold made light of a blistering hot day to get on their mountain bikes and raise thousands of pounds for charity this month.

In all 22 members of Chiddingfold Bonfire Association (CBA), took up the challenge and an early start to ride from Kempton Park racecourse to Brighton, a distance of 75 miles with some climbs of up to 4,900 feet above sea level.

Their route followed the Thames cycle track through Weybridge, Shere, Southwater Country Park and Steyning before tackling the monster climb of Truleigh Hill before reaching Brighton.

David Rauch, treasurer of CBA, organised the ride with fellow bonfire friends in memory of his father who died last year and to raise money for the Lewy Body Society.

The society undertakes research into Lewy Body disease, the second most frequent cause of age-related neurodegenerative dementia.

To date, David and his fellow riders have successfully raised £3,000, some of which will also be matched by his employer.

Fellow and experienced mountain bike riders Andy Campbell and Simon Manuel said: “This was a great challenge particularly with the hot weather.”

Haslemere-based Hoppa Buses kindly provided the transport ferrying the intrepid riders to the start and more importantly picking the weary riders up from Brighton.

David said: “Massive thanks to everyone for their help on the day and the generous sponsorship.”

•Anyone wishing donate can still do so by going online at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/david -rauch