A GROUP of 17 daring friends completed a bike ride of more than 300 miles to raise money in memory of four important men who sadly took their own lives.

The group from Colchester managed to raise more than £31,000 for Mind Essex, by the time they crossed the finish line in Paris on Saturday.

The gruelling ride saw them cycle 85 miles in the first day, as they cycled from Greenwich to Dover on Wednesday September 14.

The group then got a ferry to Calais, where they then set off for Paris, remembering to cycle to keep to the right.

The epic journey saw the group cycle through the French countryside for two days along quiet country lanes, through quaint market towns and the hills of Northern France.

On the final stretch, the group of tired cyclists found themselves weaving in and out of French traffic, before finishing within view of the Eiffel Tower.

At the finish line, the group was greeted by 45 members of friends and family, celebrating the specular achievement.

Lloyd Heard was one of the riders who completed the cycle.

His wife, Abigail, said: “I took our little boy, he was buzzing and shouting for his daddy.

“We were all so proud, they raised an insane amount of money.

"During the final stretch we kept refreshing the justgiving page. In the last five miles, they went from £28,000, to more than £30,000.”

The group celebrated with beers, champagne and an Eiffel Tower view, before going back to the hotel, getting ready and enjoying an Italian meal between the 45 of them.

Tim Needham was a rider who completed the challenge, he said: “I must give a shout out to one of our riders, Jake Bethell. He went above and beyond, to make sure this happened.

“I couldn’t recommend the experience enough. It has been mentally and physically challenging, but the group puled together and helped one another through the low points.

“Most of all, we had some great laughs, raising money for a fantastic cause, whilst seeing quiet areas of France and beautiful scenery.”

Anyone in need of help should contact The Samaritans on 116 123, or text SHOUT to 85258.