A TEACHER cycled for nearly 11 hours in aid of a pupil who has overcome a rare type of bone cancer.

Peter Friend, who works at Castlebrook High School, took part in the Wiggle Dragon ride, a 138-mile trek in the Brecon Beacons with friend Chris Scott.

They were inspired to take part in the ride by 15-yearold Connah Haslam, who was diagnosed last year with Ewings Sarcoma, which is a growth on the thigh bone.

The ride on Sunday took the pair 10 hours and 58 minutes. So far they have raised more than £2,500 and hope to reach a target of £3,000.

The proceeds will be split between the Teenage Cancer Trust, The Christie and Macmillan Cancer Support.

Connah had to have surgery, which involved having the whole of his femur and part of his hip joint removed, and replaced with prosthetics.

While in Year 10, he had to undergo months of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and physiotherapy, forcing him to be absent for the school year, meaning sitting his GCSE exams were initially in jeopardy.

However, Connah, now in Year 11, has fought back and, with the support of his family and friends, has been given the all clear.

Mr Friend, who is a house learning co-ordinator at the school in Parr Lane, said both he and Mr Scott had not previously cycled more than 60 miles, but said it was an “amazing experience”.

The 27-year-old said: “Connah has been back in school since November of last year and he is now sitting his GCSE exams.

"His drive and his determination not to give in has been an inspiration to everyone at the school and has been the inspiration behind this challenge.”

People can make a donation by visiting: justgiving.com/ teams/scottyandfriendy — or donate £5 or £10 by texting CSPF86 £5 or CSPF86 £10 to 70070.