FLYING, biking in heat up to 40C and seeing some of the wonders of Italy were just some of the highlights for a group of teenagers these summer holidays.

The children were students of Beacon Hill School and Solway Community College who joined the eighth challenge of the Beacon Hill Bike Club.

It was the fourth international trip organised by deputy head Danny Gee who said it was also the biggest and most challenging trip.

Students flew from Manchester to Pisa. For many it was their first time on a plane.

They then cycled 300 miles, in sometimes scorching temperatures, to the Colosseum in Rome.

“Highlights included jumping into the lake at Bolsena in 40'C heat! There was the Coliseum tour in Rome, eating Italian food with locals in small Italian villages and learning the Italian phrase of the day.

with locals.

“We slept in a convent in San Gimignano., enjoyed the beautiful Tuscan scenery and endured toe 'Alpine' climb up to Orvieto.”

The challenge also included Tour de France/Giro de Italia style sprint and hill climb challenges.

This year's trip was made possible because of the Cumbria Futures Federation and the working together of the two schools (Beacon Hill and Solway) The sharing of resources and mutual support meant that Solway students were able to join Beacon Hill Bike Club on the Challenge, and the collective numbers made the challenge viable.

Students were enthusiastic about the ride.

Abbie Blacklock, 12, said: "I was so excited to go to Rome. It was amazing seeing all the castles and cathedrals and everything along the way. We worked really hard fund raising for this challenge because we'd had to raise £20,000! It was all worth it. It was great how everyone got along so well."

For Campbell Davidson, 15, who, through his cycling wants to do sports medicine in future, there was the pride of being named King of the Hill.

Mr Gee thanked those businesses, including the Times & Star and the town council who had supported the challenge.

“CumbriaExchange.com secured the use of a new Mercedes Sprinter van from Shepley engineering, Northgate provided a support vehicle and bike luggage transfer from the UK. Without them this would not have been possible.

“We are also grateful to Specialised Bikes who support the club.