AN EPIC adventure of a lifetime by a trio of teenagers has raised tens of thousands of pounds for terminally-ill youngsters and adults.

Alex Milne, Alistair Gethin and Cosmo Cotton decided to spend the start of their summer break embarking upon a two-week European adventure.

The Year 12 Abingdon students pledged to raise £7,500 for Helen & Douglas House but have since smashed their target and gathered more than £15,000.

The Radley College teenagers, who are all 17, set off on their cycling escapade from Bicester on July 3, arriving in the Spanish city at about noon on July 17 after having just one day of rest.

After covering almost 700 miles, the trio reflected on their great feat, which took them across England, France and Spain, at the finish point - the Guggenheim Museum.

Alex, from Lyford near West Hanney, said: "It was, at times, extremely mentally tough but through these more difficult times we would give each other encouragement and we made the journey in one piece. Every kilometre was just about another £15 for Helen & Douglas House and that was extremely motivating."

After setting their sights on raising thousands for the Magdalen Road hospice, the teenagers made sure to squeeze their training into any free time between studying.

They said they were keen to fundraise for a cause close to their hearts and only had slight concerns they may have been "over ambitious" with their 14-day cycle ride.

Alistair said: "It was an incredible experience that none of us regret. I would do it again given the opportunity, however, a support van would be nice if I did."

Cosmo added: "We want to thank all of our supporters. All of the comments and messages kept us going through the tougher days! It was an amazing experience and none of us regret any part of it. I would do it again."

The charity's community fundraiser for Abingdon Janet Carruzzo said: "These three young men have completed an amazing challenge both physically and with their fundraising.

"They thought their first target of £7,500 was ambitious but to raise over £13,000 is extraordinary. I’m sure this will have been a life-changing trip for them and we are so grateful to them for taking on this challenge."

The East Oxford hospice needs £5m each year to care for more than 300 young people from across Oxfordshire and surrounding counties, and provide support to more than 60 bereaved families.

Patients and their families helped by the hospice team are provided with medical, emotional and practical support to ensure they can make the most of their time together.

See justgiving.com/teams/bicestertobilbao