A CYCLING group from Birmingham have successfully completed the mammoth task of cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats in memory of their dear friend and former member from Cumnock.

Martyn Gall tragically died after he was involved in a road cycling accident on the A441 in Alvechurch while out with his bike club, Sette Dodici, in November last year. He was 41.

In honour of the father-of-two, who has been described as “full of life and charisma”, club members Michael Boden, Edward Lovsey-Barton, Stewart Ball, Andrew Overton and Shaun Hickinbottom alongside Mark Phillips in the sports vehicle pedalled 927 miles across six days, raising an incredible £2,000 and counting for a charity chosen by Martyn’s wife, Diane.

Cumnock Chronicle:

Cyclist Michael told the Chronicle: “We’ve always wanted to do a long endurance ride. Martyn did the job a few years ago and we thought this was a good year to do it as Ed and I are both turning 40. Obviously such a tragedy happened last year but Martyn always encouraged us and spoke highly of doing it.

“It’s been good. We got caught up in a thunderstorm in the Lake District and a couple of us weren’t very prepared. We got very cold very quickly. Within an hour it was sunny, dry and fine then it was torrential rain and freezing but there’s been lots of camaraderie and lots of laughs throughout the week even though it’s long days and our legs are sore.

“We’ve got a jersey in remembrance of Martyn so we’re all wearing that jersey on the ride. We’re really pleased to support the charity that Martyn’s family are interested in.”

The lads also made a special pit stop at Martyn’s family home in Cumnock, where they were greeted by his mum, dad, brothers and wider family.

Cumnock Chronicle:

Michael continued: “We had a very humbling time in Cumnock, the welcome we got was amazing and the food. Ed’s been before, he was one of five that did the long ride from Birmingham to Scotland with Martyn.

“We’re really touched that Martyn’s mum did lunch for us all. Martyn was a massive character and he will always be remembered. It was a poignant day wearing the jersey in his honour. Our thoughts are with his family as we enter Scotland. He had a very exuberant life.”

Martyn’s family commented: “It was very emotional but also humbling. We’re in awe of people who do this cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats. What an amazing thing to do in a week. It’s just sad that Martyn wasn’t with them this time. He’s had fab friends both here and in Birmingham and they’ve all been touched by his death.

“It’s a comfort to us and an honour that they called in.”

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