Allen and his crew had to stop to avoid finishing their ride too early

Martin Allen's sponsored bike ride from his home in Berkshire to Cheltenham has raised nearly £15,000 for the club.

A club spokesman confirmed the amount after Allen, a director and six fans completed the 70-mile plus journey.

"It wasn't just about raising money, it was a commitment to the club from the staff, the players and the supporters" Allen told BBC Radio Gloucestershire.

"I think all the players were delighted to see me get back in one piece, they were very sceptical that I'd make it!"

He added: "They were put through it last week at the Army camp in Blandford and, if you like, I matched the training that they had."

Allen made it to Whaddon Road in plenty of time to see his League Two side lose 4-0 to Birmingham City in their final pre-season game.

Scotland international Garry O'Connor opened the scoring for the Blues with Sebastian Larsson, Kevin Phillips and Albert Fataki also finding the net against a Cheltenham side containing a number of youngsters and fringe players.

The Robins open their league campaign on Saturday with a match at home to Grimsby Town.

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