THREE Sidmouth police officers boosted a local charity which aids people with physical and learning disabilities by completing a 50-mile sponsored cycle last Thursday (September 18).

THREE Sidmouth police officers boosted a local charity which aids people with physical and learning disabilities by completing a 50-mile sponsored cycle last Thursday (September 18).

Sergeant Andy Turner and PCSOs Alex Powe and Steve Blanchford-Cox joined fellow East Devon Officers to peddle their way around the area's police stations for the Dream-A-Way charity.

The round journey saw cyclists head off from Honiton Police Station and pay visits to Ottery St Mary, Sidmouth, Seaton and Axminster.

Station enquiry officer Debbie Hollamby was on hand in Sidmouth to provide famished riders with bacon sandwiches.

Dream-A-Way sends people with physical and learning difficulties on holidays and day trips and many beneficiaries of the charity were on hand at police stations along the route to spur on the cyclists.

PS Turner said: "I'm amazed at just how many local people in the Sid and Otter Valleys have received help from Dream-A-Way. It was quite humbling to meet them all and made us understand what we were doing it for. When we were going up Salcombe Hill it didn't hurt so much."

"A few of the officers had never ridden a bike and were walking funny for a few days after."

The cyclists now enter the most important fundraising stage as they collect pledged donations.

PS Turner said: "We're still collecting and people are still bringing money into the station, I'd like to thank all those who have supported us. Personally I've raised around £100 so if we can all get close to that we'll have done well."

Officers gave up rest-days and leave to take part in the event and enjoyed a hog roast at the Otter Inn with their families upon crossing the finish line.

Donations can still be made by contacting the police station in Temple Street on 08452 777444, Dream-A-Way on 07796 442144 or by visiting Trumps in Fore Street.