A cycling trio made their French connection by biking from Kimpton to Paris in just 24 hours.

The Comet: Sam Reed,Tim Worboys and James Ekerstone reach their final destination - Roland Garros - after cycling from Kimpton.Sam Reed,Tim Worboys and James Ekerstone reach their final destination - Roland Garros - after cycling from Kimpton. (Image: Archant)

Kimpton Tennis Club members Tim Worboys and Sam Reed were joined by Harpenden teacher James Ekerstone for the 230-mile challenge, which they completed on Friday afternoon with just minutes to spare before their self-imposed time limit.

Supported by fellow club member Duncan Reed, the team arrived at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris in 23 hours, but had to navigate ‘crazy traffic’ to reach their final destination – Roland Garros.

The home of the French Open, which will see champions crowned this weekend, was chosen as the club continues to raise funds for the construction of a new clubhouse in the village.

Planning permission has already been granted for the build – which will replace the current facility at Parkfield Recreation Ground in Park Lane – but the club needs to reach £45,000 to make it happen.

So far £16,000 has been raised, including £1,000 from the ride, but tennis club captain Tim also hopes more money can be donated to the cause through match-funding and grants.

The 50-year-old from Kimpton – the chief executive of WallJAM, a sporting rebound wall company based at the Business and Technology Centre in Stevenage – said: “It was pretty tough going. We wanted to go via Marble Arch in London on the way so hit that in rush hour traffic, and then there was crazy traffic in Paris. It was hard work but great fun.

“As soon as people heard about the ride the response has been amazing and we are hoping this will help bring our dreams of the new clubhouse a step nearer.

“We all know how vital sport is to young people and this will hopefully encourage a new generation to keep active.”

Those wishing to make a donation can email the club via Tim at tim@walljam.com or call him on 07753 719311. Visit www.kimptontennisclub.net to find out more about the club.