School's static cycling event raises £6k for MND

Three static bikes were set up in the school's grounds and kept spinning for nine hours a day

A school has "smashed" its fundraising target in an ambitious cycling challenge to raise money for Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

Pupils and staff at The King's School in Gloucestershire cycled 350 miles (563km) on static bikes and raised more than £6,000 for the 4Ed Cycling Challenge.

The campaign first ran across three days in summer 2022, after Gloucester Rugby player Ed Slater announced his diagnosis with MND.

The latest challenge formed part of Wellbeing Week, from 3-7 February, where pupils were encouraged to help others and look after their physical and mental health.

The school's choir group even took part in their cassocks, with every mile contributing to their overall goal

Pupils and staff came together to keep the wheels spinning from 08:00 to 17:00 GMT every day.

The school managed to average about 70 miles (112km) each day on three static bikes set up on the site.

Gloucester Rugby coach George Skivington and captain Lewis Ludlow even turned up on Monday to help rack up the miles.

"The pupils were absolutely delighted to see them," said head teacher David Morton.

"The players got on the bikes and they did four or five miles each to catch up to the total."

Ed Slater (left) attended the school assembly to answer questions using pre-recorded responses controlled by an eye-scanner

Ed Slater, his wife Jo, and Mr Ludlow joined staff and students at their assembly to discuss the campaign and how the money raised will go towards helping families affected by MND.

• What is Motor Neurone Disease?

MND affects the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. Progression of the disease can be rapid and there is currently no cure.

More than half of those affected die within two years of being diagnosed.

The charity helps provide affected families with access to psychological and financial support, as well vital mobility equipment, changes to the home, family days out, and respite care.

Mr Morton said the event was "full of energy, teamwork, and support"

Mr Morton said the event had been a "massive success", having initially aimed to raise just £5,000.

"They smashed their target on the bikes and managed to reach £6,042.

"Some were there after school in the cold and the fog. There were two groups of staff who went out on their actual bikes on the road as well.

"Some of [the money] will be used to support families that are living with MND, and some of it will be used for research to work towards eventually finding a cure."