CYCLISTS who endured 10,000 miles in a 24 hour challenge at the velodrome in Newport have raised more than £40,000 for charity.

Twenty-three teams cycled the distance of Cardiff to Sydney in the cycling challenge at the velodrome to raise money for The Wallich, a charity providing help and support to homeless and vulnerable people across Wales.

The event began at midday on Sunday and teams cycled in relay overnight, without stopping, until the event finished at midday yesterday.

Around 132 people took part from businesses across south Wales including the Patternistas team who won the Cyclone 24 event by 35 laps. Team members included Joe Carpenter, Tyron Stephens-Smith, Dave Godwin, Mathew Williams, Peter Thomas and Chris Carpenter.

Chris Carpenter, who took part, said: "It was quite tiring and a lot of hard work but very enjoyable."

The Wallich have successfully housed many who have been street homeless, helped those with severe social problems and supported many people in rebuilding their lives after experiencing homelessness.

Jan Balsdon, director of fundraising and partnerships at The Wallich, said: “We are so grateful to everyone who took part, cheered on or sponsored this event. It is an enormous feat, both physically and mentally, but there was a great atmosphere and plenty of camaraderie from the teams.

"The money raised will help us continue the vital work we do in preventing homelessness in Wales and supporting those who are most vulnerable to re-build their lives.”

Cyclone 24 is a joint initiative between strategic branding agency Stills and The Wallich. The event is in its second year and the number of teams taking part more than doubled - last year, tenacious riders cycled more than 5,000 miles and raised more than £17,000.

For more information on the charity, visit www.thewallich.com