A GROUP of men have cycled more than 950 miles before taking on the tough challenge of climbing the UK’s highest peaks.

Tony Bernard and his son Jacques, along with nine friends and family, are raising funds for the Steve Bernard Foundation in memory of the popular lad and footballer – Tony’s son and Jacques’ brother – who died in a car accident in 2005.

The team rode from Land’s End to John O’Groats with just a few hours rest before taking on the Three Peaks Challenge of Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdonia.

Tony, managing director of the charity, told the Daily Echo: “The last miles were ridden in unison and we coasted into John O’Groats for the first of our celebrations.

“Beers were the order of the day as we scented victory.

Looking back on the cycle, Tony reflected: “It’s been an emotional ride.

“You have a lot of time to think and I obviously thought about Stevie and how much we miss him but also how he would think how crazy we all are. This was for Stevie.”

He added: “After a well deserved nap we set out for our assault on Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain at 1,344 feet high.

“This is the toughest mountain to climb and believe me it hurts – more so coming down.”

The team were due to complete their challenge yesterday, climbing Scafall Pike and Snowdonia.

The group cycled more than 100 miles a day throughout their unforgettable nine-day journey, which ended on Sunday.

The Steve Bernard Foundation has raised thousands of pounds for local sporting projects.

To donate to the cause or follow the team’s journey, go to stevebernardfoundation.com