A BANK employee has received a national award for his fundraising efforts on behalf of North Devon Hospice.

Simon Paddon, customer service manager at Ilfracombe Lloyds TSB, was presented with a "best individual fundraiser gold award" after being nominated by colleagues.

The award, one of only four given annually by the bank to deserving employees, was in recognition of Simon's efforts in organising the Devon Coast to Coast cycle challenge which, over the years, has raised just over £90,000 for North Devon Hospice.

Simon said he was "so chuffed" to be honoured in this way.

And he paid tribute to the work carried out by the hospice which two years ago cared for his father-in-law before he died.

Simon said: "It was a difficult time for us all and the support, care and thought shown by everyone at the hospice was perfect.

"It is a fantastic local charity where angels work and a facility which but for the grace of God we could need.

"They just do some amazingly inspirational work up there."

The idea for the Devon Coast to Coast Challenge came from Simon seven years ago.

At first it was something completed by a group of friends. Now it is so much more.

This year's event saw 350 riders tackle one of two routes from Plymouth to North Devon.

The amount of money raised for charity has also grown every year.

Last year riders raised £24,000 for North Devon Hospice; this year they are on target to realise £30,000.

The organising team includes Emma Lowe from the hospice fundraising team who also took part in the challenge this year.

She said: "We are very grateful to Simon for all his efforts on behalf of the hospice and we are so happy that he is getting the recognition he deserves."

Next year's Devon Coast to Coast Challenge will take place on Sunday June 5.

For more information go to www.coast-coast.co.uk