A WORLD champion athlete kick-started a cycling challenge in a bid to promote stop smoking.

The event, held at Merry Hill, was organised by Dudley Stop Smoking Service and involved teams from West Midlands Fire and Ambulance Service, Dudley Council and Stop Smoking representatives taking part in a Sprint Cycle race.

WKA World Kickboxing Champion, Simon Akufo, started the race, which saw the four teams cycle on static exercise bikes 135 miles from the shopping centre to the Olympic Stadium. – with the Fire team reaching the finish line first, while the Ambulance Service came a close second.

The challenge, which was sponsored by Asda, allowed the Stop Smoking team to not only raise awareness of the dangers of smoking, but also raise funds for British Heart Foundation, The British Lung Foundation and Tommy’s, with over £500 raised through sponsorship of the teams.

Ruth Olding, Tobacco Control Programme Manager said: “This is a great partnership working. I am so pleased that the Fire, Police and Ambulance services took up our challenge as it shows what excellent relationships we have. It’s also good to come together to raise funds for charity”.

For help in quitting, contact the team on 0800 0850 652, text CAN to 80800 or visit dudleystopsmoking.co.uk