IT BROUGHT out the camaraderie and cemented long-standing friendships as well as leaving the team somewhat bruised and exhausted – but it was all in aid of a good cause – the Ella's Memory 200km challenge.

In just 34 hours the team, including Yorkshireman Neil Jones and led by the charity's founder Martyn Selley, had cycled and trudged their way across the county in a non-stop tour of its maternity units, including those at Helston and the Royal Cornwall Hospital, Treliske.

They completed their feat, leaving the Lizard at 5.40am on May 28 to arrive to a jubilant welcome at Truro's Lemon Quay at 1.30pm the following day.

"I have known most of the team for a long time, which helped, as the banter and jokes kept us going," said Mr Selley."

Two of the team suffered leg injuries during the challenge but all managed to make it to the finishing line, raising £5,000 for the appeal, which was supported by local businesses Global Factor 2, Jolly's Drinks, Dales car dealers, Follet-Stock and Bike Chain of Redruth.

Further events are being organised in aid of Ella's Memory, including a medieval feast arranged by the Culdrose chaplain and Splash at the Culdrose Community Centre on June 26. The Truro Carnival will also be collecting for Ella's Memory during this year's event and there is a gala Ella's Evening dinner and live music event taking place at Tregenna Castle on October 1.

For details please see www.ellasmemory.org.uk