Three friends from Caerphilly have raised more than £2,000 for charity Help for Heroes with a 190 mile cycle ride.
Tony Griffths, 54, Jason Howe, 29 and John Hobbs, 28, all from Caerphilly, cycled from Caernarfon Castle to Caerphilly Castle on Friday August 24.
The trio – dubbed the Castle Kings – were helped by fourth friend John Lewis, who was support man for the trip.
The men, who have been in training for three months, are all friends through their local pub the Station Inn on Nantgarw Road.
John said: “The weather was kind at first but it soon turned to pouring rain as the riders approached Llanbrynmair for lunch at the Wynnestay Arms where patrons made kind donations.
“An energy boost from lunch set them ready for the hilly terrain towards Rhyadar for an overnight stop 110 miles complete.
“Up bright and early the next morning and spirits were high as the Castle Kings looked forward to the 81 mile haul home. Weather coming into play by throwing some nasty showers – only stopping the lads for a change of shoes and socks.
“Brecon being the next stop for a quick bite to eat before the long haul to the Storey Arms where friends and family had gathered to cheers the riders on.
“A lift in spirits saw the 30 mile trek home done in record time. The last steep climb up Nantgarw hill was the road to locals clapping and cheering the Castle Kings towards the finish line.”
In total, the four men have raised £2,140 for Help for Heroes.
Castle Kings would like to thank the main Sponsors Clive Payne Building and Fencing and also Keith Courtney fibre on flat roofing and everybody else who helped make the event a success.
If you would like to sponsor the friends, please visit http://www.bmycharity.com/castlekings