An intrepid group of cyclists have completed a gruelling coast-to-coast charity bike ride.

Lowestoft Journal: West to East Cycle ChallengeWest to East Cycle Challenge (Image: Archant)

A group of friends recently embarked on the 400-mile coast-to-coast ride as they covered the coast of Britain at its widest point – heading out from St David's Lifeboat Station in Pembrokeshire, to eventually arrive at Ness Point in Lowestoft.

The 13 cyclists, led by Lowestoft Scouts District Commissioner, Mel Buck, set out on their challenge on Tuesday, May 5 to raise funds for the scouts association, individual scout groups and other charities, with the support of two drivers.

The route consisted of a 64-mile ride on the first day from St David's to Ffairfach, before a journey of 103 miles from Ffairfach to Worcester on the second day.

The third day covered 94 miles from Worcester to Bedford, before an 80-mile trek from Bedford to Stowmarket on the fourth day. The final day concluded in a 47-mile journey from Stowmarket to Lowestoft Ness Point.

And arriving back in Lowestoft to applause and loud cheers from friends and family at Ness Point on Saturday, May 9, Mr Buck said the charity endurance ride had helped to boost the fund-raising to unveil the new £90,000 welfare facility at the Lowestoft and District Scouts' Herringfleet campsite.

He said: 'It is a great feeling of achievement.'

After enduring difficult weather conditions along the route – including 60mph gales on the first day – Mr Buck said: 'The weather was horrendous at times.'

The team, who all know each other through cycling, consisted of accountants, three firefighters from Lowestoft South fire station, scout group leaders, a paramedic and parents of youngsters in the scouts.

The intrepid group were: Mr Buck, Ray Long, Dominic Murray, Tony Fathers, Steve Fathers, Steve Daines, Seb Herod, Craig Howard, Dave Howard, Clint Holmes, Kevin Moore, Dave Loynes and Chris Wallis.