Help For Heroes cyclists get a warm welcome

The riders, raising money for Help For Heroes, arrived to a round of applause from the well-wishers gathered outside the Ingleby Arms to greet them.

The team - including four riders on handbikes and one on a recumbent - were on day four of a gruelling six-day 423 mile journey from Edinburgh to London.

Their journey culminated in their party joining up with more than a thousand cyclists in London and riding in convoy down The Mall.

“The reception we have had here, as everywhere, has been absolutely amazing,” said support rider Michaela Slay, who works at Pheonix House, one of Help For Heroes’ Recovery Centres.

“It really helps the lads to keep going on what is a tough challenge, when we get such amazing support.”

“Along the way we have had people honking their horns at us and waving and cheering, and it gives you such a boost.”

The riders happily chatted to the public as they enjoyed a well-earned rest and a bite to eat, before heading back out on the road.

Chairman of West Lindsey District Council Coun Irmgard Parrott was also on hand to offer the riders her support.

After having a chat with the riders she went round the crowd with a collection box to help raise as much as possible.

“It is so inspiring to see these men who have been injured achieving what they are.”

“It is amazing to see and we must give them our support.”

All money raised by the Hero Ride will go to the Phoenix House Recovery Centre in Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire – one of four specialist centres in the UK, run by Help for Heroes.

It provides rounded support in the form of education, vocational training, welfare, sport and adventure training to residents and day visitors.

Kelly Bostock, support programme manager at Phoenix House, where the cycling servicemen and veterans have received support, said: “Our aim at Help for Heroes is to inspire and enable them to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives and the challenge of training for and taking part in the Hero Ride will play a valuable part in this.”

To see the moment the riders arrived at the Ingleby Arms and hear the reception they got from villagers, visit www.gainsboroughstandard.co.uk