A GRUELLING cycle ride from one end of the country to the other has raised £30,000 for injured soldiers and firefighters.

The Heroes 4 Heroes team, featuring 13 firefighters from West Oxfordshire and one soldier from Dalton Barracks in Abingdon, cycled 950 miles from John O’Groats to Land’s End in just 14 days.

The cyclists completed the ride to raise £30,000 for two charities, Help for Heroes and The Fire Fighters Charity, and to increase awareness of motorcycle safety issues.

The cyclists, above, were joined by a support team of fire service colleagues, members of the Army’s Royal Logistics Corp and friends and family.

Watch manager Bob Paterson, from Rewley Road Fire Station in Oxford, said: “Fourteen cyclists set off from John O’Groats on June 5 and 14 cyclists crossed the Land’s End finishing line on June 18, with everyone cycling the 950 miles.

“There were many ups and downs on the journey in every sense of the word and many of us had sores and blisters in places too delicate to mention.

“A black Tuesday cycling from Perth to Melrose in solid rain was also a real low point, but it was a good lesson in how great teamwork can be to get you through tough times.

“Overall, the ride was an amazing and, at times, emotional experience for everyone involved and for many, a dream come true to achieve.

“I am very proud of the cyclists and everyone involved.”

Before the team set off they were already well on their way towards reaching their target, after collecting £1,500 in donations outside Sainsbury’s in Witney and £6,500 at a charity auction at Abingdon fire station.

Nathan Crockford, 35, crew manager at Burford fire station, helped to co-ordinate the fundraising efforts but was unable to take part in the ride after suffering injuries in a motorcycle accident. Mr Crockford said: “Everyone on the ride did really well and the public were fantastic when it came to stumping up the money.”

Help for Heroes was founded by Bryn and Emma Parry in October 2007 to help servicemen returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.

Mr Parry said: “Help for Heroes is all about doing your bit, and this is a fantastic effort.

“The money raised will provide much-needed support for our wounded troops.”

affrench@oxfordmail.co.uk For further information on the Heroes4Heroes campaign or to add to the £30,000 already collected, visit heroes4 heroes.co.uk