It's Peterborough to Paris as Thomas Cook celebrates its 175th anniversary

Thomas Cook cyclists reach their final destination - Paris.

Eighty riders set out on the Peterborough to Paris challenge - in recognition of the travel company’s first trip to Europe in 1855.

The ride was hosted by Thomas Cook’s Children’s Charity and the 80 participants who crossed county and country borders have helped raise a staggering £100,000.

A spokeswoman for the Bretton-based firm said: “The majority of participants – including retail staff, senior management and third party sponsors - took part on day one covering the first 65 miles from the Thomas Cook offices in Peterborough to Bletchley.

“Setting off at 9am, the route guided the cyclists through Elton, Steeple Gidding, Kimbolton, Riseley, Harrold, Turvey and Cranfield before arriving into Bletchley at 6pm for a well-deserved celebratory barbecue.

“Thirteen avid cyclists then continued the challenge for a further five days, arriving in the French capital yesterday.”

Bringing the total amount to £100,000, Thomas Cook matched the money raised through corporate deals.

The spokeswoman said: “With the local community in mind, Thomas Cook invites charitable causes to get in touch with a grant application for support.”

Further information can be found online at www.thomascookchildrenscharity.com.