ELDERLY residents at a Kidderminster care home welcomed cyclists during an 800-mile fundraising challenge from Poole to Aberdeen.

Brook Court, in Oldnall Road, was the 12th stop in Care UK's Ride 800, a 15-day initiative which aimed to raise thousands of pounds for three charities.

Andrew Knight, chief executive of residential care, Jacqui White, marketing director, and Tony Weedon, strategic programme director, visited 26 homes across the country as part of the challenge.

They cycled from Care UK's most southerly home to its most northerly to raise cash for the Care Workers Charity, the Alzheimer's Society and Alzheimer Scotland.

Brook Court gave the riders a warm welcome, with residents, relatives and well-wishers turning out to cheer the team on during a particularly hilly leg of the journey.

Residents were also given a chance to have a go on a supported cycle, which was taken to all 26 homes. The bike allows two people to cycle side by side with only one rider having to pedal.

Once the fundraiser is complete, the directors will present the supported cycle to the home which they think created the best themed decorated bike.

Gillian Pratt, home manager at Brook Court, said: "Residents and colleagues have always been enthusiastic supporters of good causes, so when we learnt that we could help Care UK raise a five-figure sum for these three important charities, we jumped at the chance.

"We were really proud to host our directors' visit.”