HUNDREDS of Cumbrian workers have cycled 80,000 miles in just 35 days - the equivalent of round the world three times.

More than 80 teams of colleagues from 57 organisations took part in the South Lakes Cycling Challenge which saw 325 biking enthusiasts take part.

And it was 25-year-old David Kitchen, of Ulverston, who rode his way into the winner's spot, totting up the greatest number of miles.

"Once the challenge was underway my competitive nature got the better of me and cycling became my sole vocation for a month," he said. "It was an overwhelmingly positive experience and it was brilliant to see so many cyclists out on Cumbria’s roads - I’m sure the legacy will last deep into winter, if not until next year’s challenge."

The mechanical engineer at Barrow's OneSubsea added that he and a number of colleagues had started up an informal cycling team to see how they would fare against other local organisations.

Teams from across south Cumbria battled it out, including 55 competition beginners, in the challenge which started on September 4 and finished last Thursday (October 9).

Participants logged their cycling online and a variety of prizes have been won by individuals and teams for everything from the team with the most amusing name, Cartmel Priory's Sickly, Coughy Puddings, to team with the largest total age with Arnside and SIlverdale AONB staff. - with an average age of 58.

Rachel Shaw, South Lakeland District Council Environmental Protection Officer, added: “The South Lakes Cycle Challenge is based on studies that show if you can encourage people to give cycling a try there's a good chance they'll enjoy it and keep it up.

"It all helps to reduce congestion on our roads, besides being good fun and an aid to fitness and good health.”

Members of the winning teams will be awarded a certificate and prizes at a ceremony on Thursday October 23 at the Lake District National Park Headquarters hosted by South Lakes MP Tim Farron.