TWO carers got together for a charity bike ride with a twist, raising more than £500.

Caring duo Sean Speakman and Shaun Jones, who both work at Stocks Hall Care Homes in St Helens, took part in the sponsored ride, cycling 28 miles in fancy dress on a tandem bike.

The twosome dressed as TV commercial characters, the '118 118' men, complete with black curly wigs and retro shorts and vests.

Sean, a unit supervisor, said: "It's fair to say we got a few strange looks along our journey, but it was certainly a lot of fun."

The route, which began at Southport Pier, finished at the Denton's Green care home. After two hours and 40 minutes, the pair returned to a roar of cheers as they crossed the finish line.

Stocks Hall residents, staff, friends and family gathered to celebrate and congratulate Sean and Shaun on their achievement.

Sean said: "It was a tough challenge; neither of us had been on a bike since we were about nine years old, and we did no training prior to the event. We couldn't walk for three days afterwards!

"The prospect of raising so much money for the home, which is close to our hearts, seemed a perfect fit and it was all worth it."

Final sponsorship figures are not yet confirmed, but to date the pair have raised at least £510.

Based on Elderflower Road, Stocks Hall provides care for more than 50 people, aiming to maintain lifestyles as similar as possible to those residents enjoyed at home.

Julie Gaskell, manager of the home, said: "Individual donations including sponsored events like these allow us to provide life-enhancing services and opportunities such as more outings and social activities, so those in our care can continue to live life to the full.

"We are hugely appreciative of Sean and Shaun's efforts and dedication."

The tandem bike was loaned by the Cycle Centre in Runcorn.