Lifecyclists and their back-up team proudly entered Old Trafford Stadium in Manchester this afternoon, escorted by members of Stockport Fire Brigade to be greeted by none other than the Sir Alex Ferguson, manager of Manchester United Football Club.

The team had just completed a gruelling 2,100 kilometre ride from Venice, which saw them cycling through Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium and France before finishing in the UK.

The challengers were also greeted by several family members who gave them a huge welcome, making it a noisy and emotional scene.

Sir Alex spent 15 to 20 minutes signing shirts and autographs for the team and expressed amazement at their courage and determination.

Whitehall Fire Station Commander Chris Mylock and Malcolm Leatherbarrow, a retired member of the Greater Manchester Fire Service and who now resides in Mellieha, organised the welcome for the very tired cyclists.

Lifecycle chairman Alan Curry said it was one of the most glamorous finishes possible, and with many football fans in the team giving the team the added inspiration to go to the finish line.

The group, he said, was a credit to Malta for what they had done for persons less fortunate than themselves.

Lifecycle organises an annual cycling challenge to collect funds for the Renal Unit at Mater Dei Hospital.

Tomorrow, many of the team have tickets for the Manchester United vs Westham game at Old Trafford, thanks to the efforts of Betfair and the Manchester United Supporters Club in Malta.

Those who are not football fans will take the opportunity to rest, recharge and shop before the team gets together for a celebratory meal at Old Trafford in the evening.

The team will be returning to Malta from Manchester on Sunday on flight KM139, due in at 2.50 p.m.

Donations can be made through the website www.lifecyclechallenge.com or by texting 5061 7370 to donate €2.33, 5061 8920 for €7 and 5061 9229 for €11.65. One can also phone 5004 9065 to give €10, 5004 9060 for €20 on 5004 9063 for €50.

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