A TEACHER from Shebbear College did not have the relaxing start to the summer holidays one might expect — she embarked on a cycling challenge with a Continental twist.

Mathematics teacher Claire Cardoo set out on a charity bike ride from London to Paris, more than 300 miles in total, enduring heat of up to 36 degrees.

Claire was part of a 132-person team who were all raising money for their chosen charities.

Claire chose Christian Aid as her charity, a cause also supported by the college, as it aims to eradicate poverty and starvation in all parts of the world.

The group cycled between 70 and 80 miles a day, and the final day saw a 262-strong pack of cyclists make its way up the Champs Elysees and finish at the Eiffel Tower.

Claire said: 'We were also in time to see the Tour de France come into Paris, which was a great reward after four days' cycling and countless hours of training. I can't imagine having more fun while raising money for such a brilliant cause.'

Last term the college hosted fashion shows and a spring fete to help Claire with her fundraising. To date she has raised more than £1,500.