RECORD-breaking charity fundraiser ‘Blind’ Dave Heeley and his fellow cyclists made a final stop in Meriden last weekend before the final stage of their 800-mile Escape from Colditz ride.
The West Bromwich-based marathon man called in at Meriden Hall, headquarters of recruitment specialist Pertemps, who have backed him on the ride, to rest and take on board food and liquids.
While there he was joined by an additional peloton of cyclists for the final leg to The Hawthorns, in West Bromwich.
The additional riders included West Midlands Chief Constable Sir Dave Thompson and Chris Brunt, ex-West Brom footballer, who joined him for the final 30-mile stretch of the epic ride which has raised more than £30,000 for the Albion Foundation, supporting worthy causes in the region.
After arriving at Meriden, Dave, aged 64, said: “It was gruelling, it was painful. It was joyful – and there was a lot of banter.
“I am not sure what is next to be honest, but I don’t think I have another 1,000-mile ride in me.
“However, the turnout here to welcome the team back has just been incredible. What can I say?”
Dave and his fellow cyclists pedalled from Colditz Castle, in Germany, to Birmingham in seven days.
His final miles took him across Bedworth, Corley and Meriden, before heading up to Maxstoke and then across Birmingham.
In 2008 and at the age of 50 Dave became the first blind person to complete the seven marathons challenge, running seven marathons on seven continents in seven days.
You can still donate to boost the total further by visiting www.justgiving.com/teamblinddaveescapefromcolditz
