Day 18 – Helmsdale to John O’Groats

Everybody woke in the hostel in a happy mood, the sun was blistering down and everyone was ready for the final push. Round the first bend and we were in to steep hills, our lungs were bursting as we entered the cloud line. However the Scottish scenery compensated for the pain in our lungs.

We had lunch in Lybster and were joined by Steve and Caroline Cook.

As we got back on our bikes for the final time it was hard to believe that the journey was almost at an end, the team spirit from stage one to stage three has been absolutely brilliant. As we entered the last three miles we were coasting into John O’Groats, the riders covered Bob with champers as they were cycling, and when they arrived there was a reception committee cheering and clapping with more champagne corks popping (thanks to Matt Smith for the champagne). Everyone embraced everyone, hugs and kisses all round! The total journey was 1015 miles. After lots of photos by the sign post we made the 3 hour journey back to Aviemore for a celebratory party and one or two well earned drinks!

A big thank you to Kerry who sent up 4 bottles of champers for everyone over dinner. Another big thank you to Gray Davis, Merf Newport, Dave Etheridge and Winge who arranged for 2 bouquets of flowers for Rosie and Shell. Massive thank you to everyone who has supported us on the campaign, it has been a truly amazing experience and we are already arranging the re-union party!