A CARER has completed a mammoth 170-mile bike ride — and provided a lift for Bury youngsters.

Laurence Kitchinson raised £400 during the challenge, which was matched-funded to enable the purchase of five new bikes for the R:ed Centre in Morley Street, Bury.

Mr Kitchinson, aged 49, is a support worker at the centre, which is run by Action for Children and provides facilities for children with disabilities and their parents.

He is also a member of Chadderton and Failsworth Rotary Club and joined fellow members on the Way of the Roses coast-to-coast bike ride, from Morecambe in Lancashire to Bridlington in Yorkshire, over three days.

The rotary club doubled the £400 Mr Kitchinson raised to pay for the bikes.

An Action for Children spokesman said: "We were all very impressed with Laurence’s enthusiasm and energy.

"With the support of the local Halfords store, who kindly arranged a substantial discount, the children can now enjoy the thrill of cycling around the centre's outdoor play area and community paths."