TWO cyclists from Basingstoke have been rewarded for raising the most funds for the town's hospice at a big event in the summer.

Barry Field and Chris Holland pulled in the pounds by taking part in Big Wheel 9, an annual cycling event in aid of St Mary's Hospice.

At a special presentation evening at the hospice, the proud pedallers were each presented with a brand-new mountain bike - the top prize came from Bike Brothers in Basingstoke and the second prize from Pedal On in Tadley.

Mr Field, who was the top fundraiser of the 1,000 cyclists in Big Wheel 9 - pulling in £674 - explained he was inspired to take part in the event by a colleague three years ago and has been involved ever since.

The Cranbourne resident said: "I really enjoyed the day and it was a great opportunity to see the countryside. A group of 10 friends rode together this year and we had a great time."

Mr Holland, who raised the second-highest amount, had personal reasons for strapping on his helmet.

The resident of Kingsmill Road, Basingstoke explained: "Sadly, I have had relatives who have required the service of hospices, and, professionally as a solicitor, I have visited patients in St Michael's Hospice.

"I retired 18 months ago and decided to get my dusty bike out of the shed."

Overall, the event raised more than £50,000 for the hospice, which supplies the highest quality and standard of specialist palliative and supportive care for north Hampshire.

Adrian Lansley, from Pedal On, said: "This is the perfect cause, a local charity doing great things for the local community, and it is excellent to be tied into a biking event."

Event manager Melanie Blackman urged entrants of Big Wheel 9 to check if they still have sponsorship money to send in, adding: "We are still receiving sponsorship. It's really not too late."