A GROUP of teenagers from Northwich have helped to raise more than £2,000 for St Luke’s Hospice by cycling from Comberbach to Blackpool.

‘Team Rutter’, made up of 10 boys aged between 15 and 16, cycled the impressive distance on July 3 and 4 to raise money for the Winsford-based charity, who looked after the aunt of one of the team members.

Jennifer Dutton died at the hospice on May 10 this year, with her nephew Oliver organising the fundraising cycle after deciding to give something back.

“St Luke’s really helped my auntie when she was ill – they were really supportive and helped the entire family through that difficult time,” said 16-year-old Crowton resident Oliver.

“They cared for the family as well as for her, and I just wanted to say thank you for that.”

The Weaverham High School student asked his friends if they would help him raise vital funds for the hospice he holds close to his heart, with fellow student Sam Wood, 16, organising the route.

The two were joined by Ben Thornhill, 16, Adam Dean, 16, Luke Worrall, 16, Austin Edwards, 16 Jonathan Pym, 15, Lawrie Porter, 15, Nick Fox, 16 and Brandon Howman, 16.

“We left Comberbach at around 8.45am on the Wednesday, and arrived in Blackpool at 8pm the next day.

“Along the way we stopped off at The Halliwell Jones Stadium in Warrington, the Wigan stadium and the Preston North End Stadium.

“The first day was 63 miles, and the second day was 65 miles of cycling.

“It was tough but we had a lot of people supporting us and to raise more than £2,000 for St Luke’s is fantastic.”

Oliver’s proud mum Carol said: “I think it’s an amazing thing that they have done.”