TWO men cycled the 63 miles between Poundland branches in Aberystwyth and Porthmadog in a bid to raise £100,000 for children’s charities Make-A-Wish, Tommy’s, and Whizz-Kidz.

Pete Wyatt from Poundland Telford and area manager John Boschi are part of a team of 200 Poundland employees that is cycling 3,400 miles around the coast of UK and Ireland over two months, starting and stopping at a Poundland store each day, as part of the retailer’s partnership with the three charities.

The partnership is on track to raise £1m this year.

Along the way the riders have been stopping at Poundland branches for family days with sweets, a static bike, and the Poundhound furry mascot in store.

John and Pete arrived at the Porthmadog branch after four hours and 20 minutes after setting out from the store on Great Darkgate Street.

Ahead of the ride, John said: “I’m looking forward to the ride from Aberystwyth to Porthmadog with a bit of trepidation due to one or two fairly big climbs which is always challenging on a bike and the weather is not looking great.

“However, what a great way of showing our support by getting on our bikes for kids, pushing hard to raise £100,000 from the bike ride that has been all around the UK these past weeks.”

Nigel Williams, Poundland midlands and north west regional manager, said: “John and Pete did a fantastic job, as have all of our brilliant riders taking part.

“Most of them haven’t been on a bike in years, and this sense of achievement, as well as raising money for a great cause, is spurring them on.

“It’s an awesome feeling to know what a difference Poundland is making to families.”

Rosie Leverton, corporate fundraiser at Tommy’s, said: “We have been so impressed with all the Poundland staff in Wales committed to pedalling for pounds and raising money for children throughout our communities.

“Massive thanks go to everyone at Poundland for supporting this fantastic effort that will mean more children’s lives will be changed, and more parents can take home the baby they dream of.”