A sponsored bike ride in honour of a former head teacher who is fighting cancer raised more than £1,000 for charity.

Former Borden Grammar School pupils Daniel Pumfrett and Marcus Underdown organised the fundrasier in recognition of the work of Harold Vafeas.

The 19-year-olds set off on the 61-mile route from the Cancer Research headquarters in St John Street, London, with their journey ending four hours later at the school in Avenue of Remembrance, Sittingbourne.

They were greeted by family and friends and deputy head teacher Laurel Townend. So far they have raised £1,260 for Cancer Research UK.

Mr Vafeas was forced to retire from his post in July due to ill health. The 58-year-old was diagnosed with the disease last summer.

Shortly afterwards he began a sixth-month course of chemotherapy, returning to school as and when he was well enough.

It was hoped he would resume the role full-time this September, but he decided to leave so he can focus on his health.

He had been at the helm since September 2004. Before his arrival he was deputy head at Dane Court Grammar School in Broadstairs for 12 years.

Prior to that he was head of sixth form at the town’s Highsted Grammar School.

He taught both of the young men A-level history. As a result Daniel, of Walsby Drive, Kemsley, is now studying the subject at Norwich university while Marcus, of Sapphire Close, Sonora Fields, is working towards a degree in the same subject at Portsmouth.

• To make a donation visit www.justgiving.com/Mr-Vafeas-Cycle