A Keswick dentist and his practice manager wife have cycled from Paris to London to raise money for charity.

Simon and Lindsey Welch from the Fitz Park Dental Practice biked 287 miles in three days for Make-A-Wish UK.

More than 18 dentists and practice staff from around the country took part in the event. The money will go towards granting the wishes of children and young people around the UK who are fighting life-threatening conditions.

The set off from the Eiffel Tower, heading north through the countryside, negotiating road closures and temperatures of 34°C.

“After cycling in extreme heat, then struggling to carry our bikes over freshly tarmacked roads, we arrived in Amiens where we were greeted with a much-needed cold beer," said Simon.

"We made an early start the following morning to beat the high temperatures, so after filling up on coffee and croissants we headed off to Calais for our second overnight stop."

After a short ferry crossing to Dover, the group pedalled through Kent.

“We arrived in London on the hottest June day since 1976, and coinciding with the state opening of parliament.

"After a near miss with Theresa May’s official car we finished the ride along The Mall in front of Buckingham Palace.”

Lindsey said: “We’re delighted to have raised much needed funds for Make-A-Wish, whose staff work ceaselessly for those most in need.

"We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who sponsored us, including the staff and patients from the Fitz Park Dental Practice.”