A GROUP from Dursley heading to one of the poorest countries in Central America this summer are celebrating after receiving a major boost to their expedition pot.

Ten young people and five adults connected to Dursley Tabernacle United Reformed Church – the Mission Bluefields team – will be flying to Nicaragua in July to build a school and run a holiday club.

Last week the team received a cheque for £7167, the first instalment of a grant from The Westhill Trust – a Birmingham based charity that supports religious education projects and faith-based activities.

Then, last Saturday, the Challenge for Hope cycling event in Gloucestershire was a success, in spite of some unpleasant weather.

The event saw 58 cyclists aged between seven and 70 brave the weather and complete a range of routes between 10 and 60 miles.

With the event expected to raise around £2,000 and the second instalment of the grant from the Westhill Trust due in June, the team funds are now on target for the trip in July.

The Rev Simon Helme, who will be accompanying the trip to Nicaragua, said: “We are really grateful to Ron Swanwick, Mike Bennett and all those who helped with the organisation of the cycling event, and to everyone who took part or sponsored cyclists.

“None of it could have happened without the fantastic support we had from Dursley Rugby Club, the British Cycling Federation and Striking Bikes from Gloucester.

“The day was a lot of fun and we’re hoping to make it an annual event.”

To follow Mission Bluefields visit gazetteseries.co.uk.