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Two Gravesend cyclists were given a police escort and the freedom of Donegal as they reached the end of an epic 10,000km charity ride.
PE teachers Lorraine McCormack and Rachel Knott cycled 2,000km from Gravesend to Donegal in eleven days between July and August - battling record temperatures on what was the last leg of a mammoth challenge to cycle 10,000km in a year.
The ride raised 12,000 euros for the Solace Cancer Support Centre in Donegal, and the two riders were met at the centre by a large greeting party when they arrived on Friday August 2.
"It was brilliant," said Rachel. "We met so many people en route and it was just phenomenal."
But Rachel admitted the ride had been tough as temperatures soared in July.
"The hottest day of the year was interesting - it got up to 38C and we went through 12 litres of water each.
"The toughest part was just having to get up every morning and get on the bike knowing you've got to get to the next destination. We had some very hot days and we had some days when it didn't stop raining - but we just took our time and when we needed a break we took a break."
In the end though it was all worth it as Rachel and Lorraine neared their final destination.
"I don't think either of us expected it to be as epic as it was," said Rachel. "When we left Gravesend we were joined by Gravesend CTC (Cycle Touring Club) and when we arrived in Ballintra we were joined by Donegal Cycling Club for the final section.
"When we got to Donegal we were given a police escort, and we were both given the freedom of Donegal.
"When we arrived there were 20 people at the Solace Centre - we had an amazing reception. We were in the Donegal post and the Donegal Democrat newspapers as well.
And Rachel added: "It was the best experience both of us have ever had and we'll be talking about it for many years to come."
Whether or not either of them will be exercising their new-found right to graze sheep in the centre of Donegal - the privilege of anyone with the freedom of the town - remains to be seen.
