They rode for recovery… and survived!

118 miles and numerous interviews with newspapers and radio stations later, current and former clients from Compass Selby Drugs Project have completed their cross-country cycle ride in aid of the service’s Natural Highs programme.

Compass worker Anthony Nevens says: ‘The first day from Bowness was a stinker. We set off at 1pm following a long drive and it rained all the way to our first camp site. ‘Challenge’ was the word of the day. But I was pleased by the level of motivation and strength of character these guy’s have. They worked together really well, motivating each other when things were tough. It was a 300 meter climb to the highest point but fortunately Carole from the Selby service was waiting with some hearty grub!

‘The second day was also heavy rain, but the weather broke by the afternoon and we peddled hard to keep to our programme. ‘The third day was just perfect for cycling and the scenery got even better as we cycled close to Hadrian’s Wall.

‘By the fourth day, we were all very tired. We could see it in each other’s faces but didn’t mention it as we knew that this was going to be the longest day of the trip. It also turned out to be the hottest day, with temperatures reaching 30 degrees with another 34 miles still to peddle. But we kept ourselves motivated throughout and reached the finish line in South Shields by late afternoon.’

The team hope that news of their success, and the positive media coverage received so far, will boost support for the Natural Highs programme which uses outdoor pursuits as a way to help clients make positive and lasting changes in their lives.

A video of the challenge is now available.