YOUNGSTERS, teachers and parents cycled 298 miles from Staveley to London to take tea with The Queen, without so much as leaving their school.

Her Majesty - played by parent Emma Craghill in a grey shampoo-and-set wig, pearls and elbow-length gloves - cheered the cyclists on as they took turns on stationary turbo trainers.

Among those pedalling as far as they could in 10 minutes were Staveley's fell running and cycling champion, Rob Jebb. He joined the 115 children, eight teachers and assistants, and half a dozen volunteers from the Friends of Staveley School, which organised the right royal challenge.

So far £1,545 has been raised to improve the school's outdoor space, through sponsorship and the Just Giving page.

The 298 miles clocked up is the equivalent of the National Cycling Route 6 from Staveley to London. Cyclists raced against the clock to cover the distance before the school day ended and just in time for tea and scones with The Queen.

Prizes were awarded to the pupil in each class who cycled the furthest, and there was also a lucky dip of water bottles and bags.

Senior teacher Helen Greenup thanked village businesses Wheelbase and T2 Events for loaning equipment and donating prizes, and Morrisons supermarket in Kendal for the free scones.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/fosscyclingchallenge2019