TWO friends from Neyland have raised around £1,000 for a charity helping disadvantaged people gain skills and take control of their future.

James Waygood and Amy Lewis have just completed a 400-mile cycle from Neyland to London to raise money for the Shaw Trust.

The pair, who both grew up and went to school in Neyland, set off from Brunel Quay on June 29, completing their 'epic' adventure six days later.

"Four hundred miles is no easy feat, but it was tough in ways we hadn’t expected," said James.

"The hottest week of the year made everything an intense effort, especially uphill.

"Coping with severe saddle-soreness was a literal pain in the bum we hadn’t counted on.

"But we did it without major injury or drama. Seeing our families at the finish line, six days after pedalling across Britain, we felt broken but amazing.

"With nearly £1000 raised for the Shaw Trust and having achieved a momentous personal goal, why shouldn’t we be proud?"

The pair were inspired to take on the challenge after turning 30.

They chose the Shaw Trust because of the support it gave James when he lost his job last year.

"I suffer from diagnosed depression and anxiety disorder, which causes significant disruption to my life and work than most realise," said James, who now works full-time as a higher education administrator, and part time as a theatre critic.

"When I found myself unemployed, I was forwarded onto the Shaw Trust, a charity which helps unemployed people with mental and physical health issues find work.

"Because of them I improved my skills and prospects and found a job.

"They also provided advice and assistance to my employer to help me keep that job.

"Even though they’re a small national charity, I desperately wanted to give back. So we did."

To add to James and Amy's total, visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/greatwesterncycle.