Evesham man rides from John John O’Groats to Land's End for Wonky Pets

Nick Payne decided to ride from John O’Groats to Land's End to raise money for Wonky Pets Rescue, from whom he adopted his dog, Vodka.

He made the journey aboard a BSA Ariel 3 from the 1970s which he nicknamed Charlie.

Joining them for the ride, and in case of any emergencies, was Nick’s friend Paul Bottomley.

“Too many evenings in Travelodge car parks taking the bike to bits and putting it back together but we made it.

“With the help of Paul and the goodwill and motivation of various supporters en route, some amazingly kind people, and the amazing generosity of people who donated to the fundraiser.”

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Nick suffered a few breakdowns along the way (Image: Paul Bottomley)

All in all, 49-year-old Nick travelled just over 1057 miles, which required 56 litres of fuel.

Along the way, he suffered three punctures as well as a smashed wheel due to a pothole in Moreton-in-Marsh in the Cotswolds.

He then had to deal with a broken rear axle at Devils Bridge in Wales.

Fortunately, his efforts have been rewarded, with more than £3,600 raised for Wonky Pets Rescue.

Nick set off from John O'Groats on June 4 (Image: Paul Bottomley)

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Nick moved to Evesham in 2005 and regularly helps out at the animal rescue, over in Swadlincote in Derbyshire.

“Every year, Wonky Pets Rescue helps hundreds of animals find loving homes or foster after they are discarded or abandoned, many through no fault of their own,” he said.

“At Wonky Pets putting to sleep is not an option nor has it ever been, but the downside to this is even something as humble as a kitten can soon rack up vets bills running into hundreds of pounds.

“With lockdown coming to an end this has also led to a sudden influx of animals as people suddenly realise they can’t care for an animal and work.”

Nick set off on the ride on Sunday (June 4) and arrived at Land's End six days later, on Saturday (June 10).

He passed through some unexpected places along the way (Image: Paul Bottomley)