Floods and hypothermia threatened a team of cyclists as they undertook a double Coast to Coast for the Great North Air Ambulance Service.
The team of eight from Aspatria, Wigton and Carlisle biked from Workington to Sunderland, then turned straight around and headed back through the night, battered by torrential rain and cold winds.
The 245 mile trip was supported by Cumbria-based builders Lattimer Homes in aid of GNAAS.
Organiser Steve Graham, who also took part, said there were low moments, but the fundraising goal kept them going. “I got mild hypothermia with all the wet and had to stop,” he said. “Someone sat on our kettle and we couldn’t make any hot drinks.
“But we will have raised more than £2,500 for the air ambulance. It’s a brilliant amount. I can’t believe it and I’d like to thank everyone who supported us, especially our main sponsor Lattimer Homes.”
Riders Matthew Scott and Gary Thwaite completed the whole journey in 22 and a half hours. The others either rode in relay or took breaks in the support vehicle.
The other riders were Neil Graham, Peter Hill, Philip Lightfoot, Hannah Sherlock and Andrew Simpson. Back up was provided by drivers Simon Burns and Sam Evans as well as support team member Lorna Barwise.
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