MINEHEAD taxi drivers Gordon Fagan and Ian Boden made sure they had a feast before they set off on a marathon cycle ride.

The pair were given a free lunch at West Somerset Community College's Combe Restaurant as a fitting send-off to a challenge that they hope will raise at least £5,000 for the Help for Heroes charity.

The workmates will cycle from Lympstone in Devon to Lion-sure Mer, which was part of the Sword Beach sector in the Nomandy D-Day landings of World War Two.

From there, they will return to Minehead, completing a journey of 2,700 miles across England, Wales, Scotland and France.

The college lunch, which included grilled mackerel, chicken and chocolate torte, marked the start of the epic trek.

Gordon and Ian, who began training for their ride a year ago, expect to be on the road for around a month.

The pair thanked their young hosts for the culinary send-off, which they feared could make cycling difficult initially.

Adrian Fleming, college subject leader for hospitality, said: "The Combe wishes them every success in their ambitious venture and hopes to continue its support of projects at the heart of the community."

Anybody wanting to boost the fundraising by sponsoring the cyclists can contact Mr Fleming on 01643 700322.

Photo: Steve Guscott