THE Bridgwater community, a town business and your Mercury joined forces to leave one youngster grinning from ear to ear.

We revealed how Cystic Fibrosis sufferer Becky Cotterell, aged 14, was devastated when her mountain bike, her main means of exercise, was stolen from outside her Wordsworth Avenue home in April.

But after reading about her plight, David Davies from cycle group the Somerset Levellers organised a 30-mile bike ride to raise money to buy the Chilton Trinity Technology College pupil a replacement bike.

And on Bank Holiday Monday Becky's heartache turned to utter joy when she was presented with a shiny new £400 Raleigh mountain bike complete with accessories, at the Bicycle Chain in Salmon Parade, before the ride.

Paul Cotterell, Becky's dad, said: “I can't thank them enough - it proves there are more good people than bad out there.

“Becky was over the moon and it was definitely a happy ending for her.”

Richard Bates, store manager of the Bicycle Chain, said: “This was a great example of the local community working together with the local paper and we were delighted to help get Becky back on the road.”

Somerset Levellers founder David Davies added: “The weather was perfect for the bike ride and it was a great day.

“I would like to thank everyone who helped out, the Mercury, the Bicycle Chain and all those who donated money - without these kind donations this couldn't have happened.”

David also thanked the following: Tony Russell from the Somerset Levellers for marshaling the ride and making sure all got round safely, and Amanda and Tony Perry for acting as first aiders.

Eddie Doney for being on standby with a support vehicle in case anyone needed to be recovered.

The Red Tile Cossington

The King William Catcott

Blake Veterinary Group

Tim Hansford Transport

Wheelers

Chameleon Batonettes

Harris & Harris Construction

George and Val Street's Bingo and their players at Puriton

And all the people of Puriton who kindly donated on the doorstep, there were even cheques come from as far as field as Hastings and North Wales.