gruelling 900-mile cycle ride through Britain.

Alastair Johnson and Stephen Gair arrived at John O'Groats in the north of Scotland at 5 p.m. on Thursday, thirteen days after setting off from Land's End in Cornwall.

The pair had hoped to complete the charity ride in 10 to 12 days but repeated problems with the spokes on Mr. Gair's wheels held them up.

Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Vic Richmond said yesterday: "They feel pretty exhilarated. It was a long, hard slog, but the weather was very kind to them.

"The bike problems were very frustrating but they're really happy and are hoping their efforts will be rewarded with a large donation to the charities.'' Mr. Johnson, 68, a former Police Sergeant originally from Scotland, completed the ride on his own eight years ago.

Mr. Gait, 34, a fellow Scot who works in the Harrington Hundreds grocery store, agreed to join him in the charity ride.

The money will go to the Lady Cubitt Compassionate Association and the Committee of 25 for Handicapped Children. It is not known yet how much cash they have raised.

Despite his latest exertions, Mr. Johnson is hoping to push himself again on May 24 by taking part in the annual marathon.