THREE local men are giving their legs a well-deserved break after cycling 263 miles and tackling Wales’ highest peak in just three days.

Thirty-four-year-olds Joel Hardaker, Baz Pope and Ben Nicholls burnt over 15,000 calories, turned their pedals 150,000 times and climbed 27,000 feet – a height equivalent to sea level to the top of Mount Everest – in an attempt to raise £5000 for the Paul Sartori Foundation.

Last year, Joel lost a much-loved family member, his aunt Ann Hart. The care she received from the Foundation inspired him to support the charity, which provides end-of-life care for the terminally ill.

Joel, Baz and Ben are all keen cyclists, so when the men sat down to discuss how to raise money, a bicycle-based event was inevitable.

Followed by two support vehicles - including a van, donated by Station Hire and driven by Chris Pope and Dan Bevan - the trio set off from Haverfordwest on September 18 and cycled 140 miles to Llanberis, taking on the notorious Pen y Pass clim. The following day they scaled Snowdon, before cycling through their aches and pains to make it back to the Foundation’s Haverfordwest HQ on September 20.

“It was an incredible effort by the team, including all the fund raisers and everyone who supported the adventure,” said Baz. “Our mechanic, Justin Gill, provided invaluable bike repairs. The van was absolutely vital. Anna, Becky, Laura and Sarah looked after us, made us meals and were there to see us off and welcome us home. Toni from Paul Sartori, Wendy, Jon, Nigel, and all the Junior Support Team were a massive help, as were businesses including Morrisons, who donated a load of water and energy bars. It was an epic weekend.”

The men have raised almost £4000, and would love to reach their £5000 goal. A party is planned to thank everyone who contributed to the challenge.

To donate, please visit JustGiving.com/3mandm, or text “SART55 £5” (or other amount) to 70070.