ENCOURAGED by the exploits of those on the Tour de France, two rugby enthusiasts exchanged balls for bikes and cycled more than 100 miles.

Minchinhampton Rugby Club chairman Pete Varley and club captain Matt Austin left the Crown in Minchinhampton high street at 8am on Sunday, July 21 and cycled 101 miles around all the rugby clubs in the Stroud district.

Their ride took them to Tetbury, Wotton, Dursley, Hardwicke, Gloucester, Painswick, Fairford, Cirencester, Stroud and Cainscross before returning to Minchinhampton 10 hours later.

"With the temperatures rising during the day it felt as if we had cycled around the county and the feeling was not helped by the two wrong turns which added an extra seven miles to the course," said Pete.

Minchinhampton Rugby Club has recently bought a new ground, Hollybush Farm, but a final push on of funds and preparations is needed.

Pete and Matt took on the challenge to raise money for a new clubhouse and facilities for the club’s new ground at Hollybush Farm.

"We would like to thank all those who have sponsored us and helped us raise more than £1,200 for the club and a special thank you goes to a little girl called Louisa who sponsored us £4 while we were having our their lunch stop in Miserden," said Pete.

To sponsor Pete or Matt go to https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/petevarley or https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/mattyaustin.