A RETIRED couple have returned to their west Dorset home after tackling a gruelling charity cycle ride.

Lucia and David Borradaile pedalled their way from Land’s End to John O’Groats, raising thousands for the Alzheimer’s Society.

The couple covered more than 1,000 miles, as well as climbing up a total of more than 70,000 feet.

Mrs Borradaile believes they were prepared for the trek, thanks to training around the hilly Dorset countryside.

She said: “We got on incredibly well because of the hills around here, particularly the Beaminster area.

“Although we were worried about it beforehand, we were definitely fit enough. The furthest we went was 112 miles in one day and we covered 1,020 miles in total, averaging around 80 miles a day.”

The Borradailes were not alone on their charity journey, and took motivation from being part of a group.

Mrs Borradaile added: “We went with a group of 14, made up of all ages and all abilities and we all got on very well.

“It was like a band of brothers. We were able to encourage each other to carry on.”

She added: “We seemed to get fitter the further we cycled.

“We had some interesting places to stay.

“We got wet most days while in Scotland and trying to dry out our Lycra was often difficult.

“We were able to see the beautiful lochs and scenery - and going over Dartmoor was a bit grizzly and atmospheric.”

Before taking on the challenge, the Stoke Abbot couple gave up their racehorses and invested in road bikes on a whim.

Mr and Mrs Borradaile felt “fantastic” after completing the challenge and aim to continue enjoying cycling.

Mrs Borradaile added: “We have managed to raise £16,000 for the Alzheimer’s Society.

“We would probably not do that sort of challenge again, but we would definitely continue cycling.

“It was well worth doing in support of the Alzheimer’s Society.

“The personal achievement we felt has been fantastic.

“It’s such a horrible thing for people to have to go through, and we wanted to raise money for the research that goes into fighting the disease and also carers who wonderfully look after people with it.”

To support Mr and Mrs Borradaile’s funding challenge, please visit justgiving.com/fundraising/davidandluciaborradaile