Group completes epic trip in friend's memory

It was inspired by the tragic death of fellow university student Matt Elvidge, 23, who had been poised to start a career in the insurance industry when depression led him to commit suicide.

Among his friends was Carl Malthouse, 24, from Sackville Road, and the group visited the homes of all nine taking part in the ride to create their challenge.

On arrival in Bexhill they were welcomed at Bexhill Rowing Club (right) where members added a further 70 to their cause - the Matt Elvidge Trust, set up to raise awareness of and help treat depression in young people.

The riders were encouraged by friends, family and well-wishers joining them on each stage of the journey, which ended on Sunday at Matt's home at Hartley Wintney in Hampshire.

All present on the final stage were treated to a barbecue laid on by Matt's parents, Hamish and Linda Elvidge, to thank them for their efforts, which brought in almost 30,000.

Carl's mother, Lynne, said: "Hamish Elvidge made a very poignant and heart-rending speech about the amount of money the group had raised and the enormity of what they have achieved.

"I would like to add my own thanks to the people and traders in Bexhill who generously showed their support and gave the cyclists such a warm reception."

Donations can still be made by visiting the link at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/1000milesformatt.