Nick finishes! (From Hereford Times)

Nick finishes!

11:35am Monday 5th January 2009

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Well, well, well, I had done it! How, I do not know! Times had been tough: the freezing temperatures particularly as I cycled through such dark places as Shapp. However, the final few miles from Dingwall and past Helmsdale was an absolute pleasure. The pain in places I would rather not mention was easier ignored as the finishing line was in sight and I had Stephen’s beeping Freelander reminding me of my close proximity to John O’Groats.

While cycling during days 1-4, you will recall that I remarked on the good weather yet later, days 4-8 would turn out to be dreadful. And you will also note I commented on my luckiness with the tyres during days 4-8. Well lone behold I had jinxed myself again with a big puncture on the back wheel a few miles north of Cumnock during days 8-12!

I was just very fortunate that I bought that puncture kit and not those flimsy adhesive strips which certainly wouldn’t have dealt with the problem.

The change in route meant I went up through the east coast route approaching John O’Groats, avoiding the more scenic route on the west and through Thurso. Yet some of the scenery was terrific going along the East Coast and past Wick - and I managed to cut a good 100 miles off the route. My thanks to all those people who provided me with their support, Stephen for supporting me to the bitter, cold end, and those at the BP garage for fixing my headlights!

The total money raised is now approaching £1600 - and it will go to good effect. It is a sizeable portion of the final £10 000 required in order to complete the £1 million Hydratherapy facility which will serve disabled children throughout Herefordshire from September 2009.

May I thank all those who have provided their generous support, here’s to a terrific 2009 for all the staff, parents and pupils and Barrs Court School!