Mandy cycled for 12 days covering hundreds of miles to raise money for the Horsham and Crawley Samaritans branch.
All of our volunteers have been eagerly waiting to hear from Mandy about how the journey went, and we are lucky enough to have been given a day by day diary of where she went and what happened along the way. Her determination and drive is admirable and we are in awe of her generosity for the branch.
The whole experience has been wonderful. The most amazing thing about this whole adventure is the wonderful people who have supported us by coming to events, helping to organise events, donating money, and so much more.
Mandy reflecting on the process as a whole.
Mandy's bike parked up on the beach.
Day one
The adventure started in a hotel called the Long Boat Inn Penzance. Bikes and bags were all packed in the van and the eight riders taking part in this challenge got into a mini bus for the journey to Lands End. Start time was 9.30 and the destination was Liskeard, just 76 miles away.
Day two
A tough day travelling across Dartmoor but lucky to have lovely weather. We safely arrived in Taunton, 91 miles cycled.
Day three
Wales was the goal but first we had the challenge of Cheddar Gorge in really bad weather. The wind and rain made the gorge more like a wind tunnel. Hepstow was our final destination, 79 more miles completed.
Day four
Unfortunately we faced more torrential rain, thunder and lightning throughout the morning. Shrewsbury was our destination. 94 miles ticked off the list.
Day five
Off to Preston, we were getting much further North now. Arrived at our hotel in Preston after another 94 miles in the saddle.
Day six
Last day in England with a big hill to climb. 99 miles to Carlisle.
Day seven
Scotland at last! Only half way to our final destination. Lovely countryside of the southern uplands to help us pedal the miles and safe arrival in Kilmarnock. 98 miles completed.
Mandy at the Scotland border sign.
Day eight
Coastal route first thing in the morning and a ferry trip from Gourock to Dunoon. The scenery was very beautiful and helped to make the miles go quicker. Arrived at our hostel in Inveraray, 81 more miles down.
Day nine
Off to Loch Lochy, 96 miles through the highlands via Fort William. A great view of Ben Nevis with a sprinkle of snow on the top.
Day ten
Shorter day and went to see if we could find Nessie (unfortunately we didn’t see her). Arrived in Alness for an early finish to the day, 63 miles.
Day eleven
Massive day of 104 miles to Thurso, beautiful countryside views and quiet roads made it a great day.
Day twelve
Final day to John O’Groats. The weather had one last say on our adventure by sending us strong head winds to Dunnet Head, most northerly point on the UK mainland. Then off to our final destination to greet family & friends who were waiting for us.
Mandy at her final destination.
Mandy managed to raise over £2800, which is a remarkable achievement. The branch feels very fortunate and the money raised will make such a big difference for future operations and outreach for the branch.
I am so happy that I managed to raise so much money for such a special cause. The Samaritans have been so supportive and I know that every penny I have raised is very much appreciated by these incredible volunteers.
Mandy's reflection on the incredible journey she completed
Without the generosity of people like Mandy, the Samaritans wouldn't exist; publicity material generates conversations, and every conversation has the potential to reach someone who might be struggling.
Dallas our fundraising volunteer on the difference generosity has on our branch.