Two men have raised almost £3,000 for Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group (CCLG) by cycling the entire length of Great Britain in just five days.
Tom Roberts, 37, and Ryan Coubrough, 35, rode from John O’Groats to Land’s End earlier this month, completing just over 1,000 miles in the process.
This achievement is even more impressive given the two friends tackled the mammoth journey completely unsupported - a massive logistical undertaking that included sharing a 15-hour drive up to the Scottish Highlands before they’d even started.
Having also had to battle injuries and ward of fatigue and sleep deprivation along the way, Ryan said that they were “mentally elated, extremely relieved, and physically broken” upon reaching the finish.
Tom added: “We knew it wasn't going to be easy and it wasn't. It was very, very tough - both physically, mentally, everything I could have expected.
“But we trained really hard for it and the conditions were perfect - we had some beautiful sunny days, and the scenery was amazing and that keeps you going as well.”
Ryan said he has long been interested in taking on endurance efforts that allow him to see the most of Britain and its stunning views at the same time, and previously completed the ride in the opposite direction, in a longer timeframe of 12 days, while at university 15 years ago.
He said two particular highlights stood out for him on this occasion: “Cycling through the Scottish borders was simply stunning, with lots of long, fast downhills.
“And on day five, cycling across the River Tamar from Devon into Cornwall, the sun was shining, and we knew the end was well within our grasp.
“We took a great photo on that bridge crossing the Tamar where we were both beaming and feeling an overwhelming sense of relief knowing we could actually pull it off.”
The pair said they’d received “amazing support from family and friends, from beginning to end”, and that they were delighted to raise such a big amount which they hope will help CCLG find kinder, more effective treatments for children with cancer.
Tom said: “We’re massively chuffed - we set the fundraising target at £2,000, which I thought was ambitious to be honest, especially when it started.
“But we had so many people supporting us, back at home and people that made donations, or just sent a text saying good luck.
“Hopefully this can make a real difference and help fund research into making treatment better.”
Ryan said: “It's amazing how much people have kindly donated. We can’t begin to imagine the pain that these children and their families go through when they get a diagnosis, so anything that can help ease the pain is so important.”
Vicki Brunt, CCLG Head of Fundraising, said: “We’d like to say a huge well done and thank you to Tom and Ryan.
“Their incredible efforts, which are testament to their teamwork, resilience and determination, will go a long way to helping us change the future for children with cancer.”