Twenty people raised more than £7,000 for Love Kingston, a fund for community projects and charities, at RideLondon.

The team cycled 100 miles to show support for the borough, being cheered on through Kingston by a group of supporters including the Mayor, Cllr Julie Pickering, who is supporting Love Kingston as her mayor’s charity.

Robert Willingham, one of the cyclists, said: “This was my fourth RideLondon in a row. I didn't train as much this year so was a little worried in the lead up. However, the weather was kind and atmosphere was as fantastic as previous years.

“It was great to see the mayor and the Love Kingston supporters at the 90-mile mark. That, and a quick cup of coffee ordered from Esher and drank in Kingston, was enough to spur me on the final leg and I was off again to finish on the Mall. I'm still waiting for the call from Sir Dave at Sky!”

Deputy Mayor Mike Head invited the cyclists alongside sponsors Asana Health, Arc Consulting Partners, QSW Sportswear, Green Room Brands and Go Cycle to a reception at the Mayor’s Parlour, to thank them and pledge himself to join next year.

Presented with the cheque for £7,668.88, community fundraising manager at Love Kingston, Tessa Kind, said: “We are so grateful to the dedicated cyclists who chose to raise money for us. They did themselves, their friends, families and colleagues who supported them proud, cycling a tough 100 miles and raising £7,668.88 for Love Kingston – a phenomenal achievement, congratulations. I am looking forward to another great Ride100 next year.”

Love Kingston is planning a programme of fundraising challenges for February and March 2018 along with Go Cycle, after some successful static bike challenges in the lead up to RideLondon.

Anyone from a school, business or other organisation who wants to host or participate in an event is asked to contact Ms Kind at lovekingston@kva.org.uk.

To find out more visit love-kingston.org.uk.