SLIMMERS used pedal power on static bikes to pull in the pounds for a Basingstoke hospice.

Members and consultants from Slimming World groups across the borough teamed up to cycle the distance from Basingstoke to Brighton seafront – a whopping 75 miles – to raise funds for St Michael’s Hospice, in Aldermaston Road.

And around 20 people from the group pedalled for nearly five hours at the hospice’s store in Wote Street before completing the challenge, raising £200 for the hospice.

Councillor Anne Court, Deputy Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, and Basingstoke MP Maria Miller, both pictured above, were among those to show their support.

Lizi Nickless, Slimming World consultant for the Oakridge area, said: “It went really well, and it was a brilliant day.

“The palliative side of care is something many people don’t want to consider but when that time comes, it is good that organisations like St Michael’s Hospice are there to take the burden off people and their relatives as well.”

Daisy Mitchell, community events co-ordinator at St Michael’s Hospice, added: “We were thrilled that Slimming World decided to support St Michael’s Hospice in the static bike challenge, and the dedication showed by their members to pedal the 75 miles was just incredible.

“I would like to thank all those who contributed in any way to the success of this community event.

“All money raised will be spent on providing our patients and families with the very best palliative care.”