CINDERFORD fire fighter Dale Critchley completed his cycle from John O Groats to Lands End a day earlier than planned.

The 34-year-old set the goal of a week to cycle 1,000 miles alongside his friend, Paul Weaver, who was driving a van donated by Lydney Van Hire. The ride has so far raised £2,126 for Cancer Research UK.

“The ride itself went really well with only a spoke breaking coming down the long descent over Shap Pass (at Cumbria),” Dale told the Review. “Luckily there was a shop nearby in Kendal, who fixed it, adding an hour onto the day.

“The only puncture I had was the last 25 miles before the end. Luckily Paul came by to help change it as by now my hands were numb from all the road vibrations and gripping.

“Off the bike was the challenge - sleep in the van was minimal as the temperatures went as low as three degrees in John O Groats.

“I only got lost from my support vehicle a few times. First time was within the first 55 miles on the most straight-forward roads out of John O Groats. I later found out Paul went for a full fry up in Tesco and didn’t realise how much ground I would cover and was left chasing every bend there after wondering if I was ahead.

“The mileage I covered over the six days varied, with day one starting at 136. After that it crept up to 146 on day two and didn’t drop below the 150 mark and capped at 156 for the rest. I only planned to be around the 125 mile mark as I had never ridden above 110 miles before and certainly not in consecutive days.

“It amazed me how powerful the mind can be over tired legs when you are determined. Through my rugby years determination had always been there but doing this for a great charity kicked it into overdrive. No matter how tough it got I kept thinking of all the people in my life and for others who would swap places from the pain they are going through and I soon powered on the best I could.

“I would like to thank those who helped make this ride possible including Paul who has been a true friend. Also to all who have donated and those who still can by visiting www.justgiving.com/Dale-Critchley-Critchfit.

“A huge thank you to WELCO Van hire, those who have donated fuel, sponsors and all my family and friends who showed support. Feeling like people are proud of you goes a long way.”