A BOOK of condolence for those killed in the Manchester Arena bomb in May has been transported by bike to the hands of the Lord Mayor of Manchester.

More than 70 cyclists set off from Bradford's City Park for the 45-mile ride, waved off by Bradford Council leader Susan Hinchcliffe and Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Abid Hussain.

The book of condolence had been handed to the group by the Bishop of Bradford, the Right Reverend Dr Toby Howarth.

Also taken along was a gift from the Council to Manchester City Council of a paperweight bearing the Bradford Council crest.

Cyclists taking part in the event named the "Unity and Respect Bike Ride" included members of Council staff, police and faith groups. They were joined by six support vehicles.

"The whole purpose was to show the people of Manchester that they have not been forgotten by us and how unity and respect are important in overcoming hate and violence," said ride organiser Rifaqat Ali, a community co-ordinator in Bradford."

Cyclists were greeted in Manchester by the Lord Mayor of Manchester, Cllr Eddy Newman, and the elected Mayor of Great Manchester Andy Burnham.

Everyone taking part was treated to a civic reception.

Ten cyclists had an overnight stay in Manchester before cycling back to Bradford as a fundraiser for Marie Curie.