A DETERMINED team of amateur cyclists battled torrential rain and 45mph gusts of wind to complete a charity bike ride.

Arkholme-based Wagtail Wheelers made the 180-mile trip from Newcastle to Edinburgh to raise money for the Headcase Cancer Trust, the only UK charity dedicated solely to finding a cure for Glioblastoma Multiforme brain tumours.

Louise Jones, whose mum Cecily Parker died from a tumour aged 72, said that they cycled the first 54 miles from Newcastle to Alnmouth with Col Spiers, who founded the charity five years ago after his wife Becky died of a GBM aged just 40.

The team faced the worst that Mother Nature could throw at them on the second day but soldiered on for 60 miles to Eyemouth.

"When I thought I couldn't go any further, I thought of my mum lying in bed towards the end of her life which made me grit my teeth and carry on," said Louise.

The third day brought blue skies and sunshine and after another 56 miles, the team arrived into Edinburgh late afternoon with a Scottish piper playing them in.

So far, more than £4,700 has been raised with more sponsorship money to come in.

Louise said she would like to thank sponsors Booths at Carnforth, Booths at Kirkby Lonsdale, Tesco at Carnforth and also Aldi for providing clothing.

Donate at www.justgiving.com/Wagtail-Wheelers-Headcase-cycle-2015/ or you can text WWNE65 £amount to 70070.