AROUND 40 charity cyclists had their chips on Sunday when they descended on Barry Island following their 250-mile Gavin 2 Stacey ride.

The energetic fundraisers re-fuelled with free fish and chips, courtesy of fellow cyclist and chip shop owner, Craig O’Shea, following their journey from Gavin’s hometown of Billericay in Essex to Stacey’s hometown of Barry, in the Vale.

Among the team were former Welsh Rugby Internationals Alix Popham, BenJohnson and Lloyd Burns.

The idea for the ride dated back to a wedding last year when Paul Symes from Essex married into a Welsh family and the ceremony brought together families and friends from Essex and South Wales.

Paul said: “We all started talking about doing something like this at my wedding. I wanted to do something special this year as it is ten years since my father died from cancer. I wanted to raise some money in his name. It’s been great that so many people have decided to join me and raise money for some very worthwhile causes.”

Craig, 42, and his team-mates Matthew Cockrell, 39, and Jamie Ross, 25, hope to raise £1,000 for Ty Hapus, on Holton Road, Barry.

Ty Hapus provides a unique and specialist day time service for people with early onset Alzheimers disease and other dementias - particularly focusing on those diagnosed under 65 and their families.

Craig said: “The ride went very well. We did 100 miles on the first day, the 70 to 90 mile part was very testing mentally and physically but team spirit got us through and that epitomised the whole three days. There were all levels of riding ability but everyone supported and encouraged each other through the entire 270 miles.

“We arrived back at Barry Island around 2pm to a huge welcome from family, friends and supporters.

We are still collecting donations and sponsorship and expect to reach the £1,000 target for Ty Hapus.”

Other charities to benefit included Marie Curie, Macmillan Tenovus, the British Heart Foundation, For Luca and Abigail’s Footsteps.

Craig added: “I’d like to say a big thank you to Vale of Glamorgan council, Parkwood Leisure, Ripped Events, VW Sinclair and Alix Popham for making this event happen.”

Donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/Craig-O-Shea1972