A GROUP of friends have embarked on an 800km cycle ride from France to Hove to help children with a rare neurological disorder.

Peter Davis, Tommy Kelly and Renata Dabrowska took part in the nine day challenge to try and raise £5,500 for charity Rett UK. They set off from Moyrazes in the Midi Pyrenees on October 9.

Mr Davis is the partner of the charity's chief executive Becky Jenner who lives in Portslade with her daughter Rosie who has Rett Syndrome.

Mr Kelly and Ms Dabrowska both work at The Better Half pub in Hove Place where the ride concluded on Monday. They have raised more than £3,000 so far and the pub was among local businesses which sponsored the event.

Mr Davis said: "I’ve seen the constant battle that Rett UK has raising money to maintain their support work for the families that need their help daily. I'm 48 next month and this cycle ride will be the biggest physical challenge I’ve ever faced but my daily reminder when things get really tough is that those with Rett syndrome and their families face greater challenges each and every day for life.’

Rett syndrome is a life-limiting neurological disorder which mainly affects girls. Sufferers are left with profound physical and communication disabilities and require lifelong care.

To donate visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Cycle4Rett