THE co-founder of North Berwick-based charity Beach Wheelchairs has cycled the equivalent length of the UK. . . from her garage.

Jackie Tagg took on on the virtual 603-mile challenge, called ‘Land’s End to John O’Groats – as the crow flies’, over 60 days in aid of Leuchie House respite centre, located just outside North Berwick.

She had initially planned to complete it for Christmas Eve but found herself more than halfway through in mid-November so successfully pushed herself to finish it by December 1.

This is not the first time Jackie, of the town’s Rhodes Park, has completed a mammoth challenge.

Ten years ago, she ‘ran’ the New York Marathon virtually on a treadmill in the Marine Hotel, raising money for North Berwick Day Centre, where she is a volunteer, and End Polio Now – Jackie suffered from polio as a child.

This previous challenge, the coronavirus pandemic leading to a move to virtual events, and the desire for a new challenge all inspired her to take on the cycle.

Jackie said that “without a purpose” she knew she would give up so decided to raise money for Leuchie.

Her mum used to visit Leuchie House for respite once a week after suffering a stroke – she sadly died in 2014. Several of Jackie’s friends have also used Leuchie’s services.

Jackie said: “As co-founder of North Berwick Beach Wheelchairs, I know from talking to disabled people and their families how important having a holiday and doing normal things are.”

In mid-October, Jackie began the cycle on the bike on a stand in her garage.

She kept note of her miles using a tracker and updated where she was in the UK on a large map beside her, using a crow to indicate her location.

She completed all 603 miles on Sunday, November 29 at noon.

After completing her challenge, Jackie said she felt overwhelmed by the support and donations.

Among those donating was North Berwick Rotary Club, which gave £250.

She added: “It’s been lovely as people have stopped to chat to me whilst I’ve been pedalling.

“The kids have been so interested in the big map and how far I had gone. They even made me a medal. At first, I could only do about five miles a day, but in the end I was doing between 20 and 30.”

A fundraising target of £500 was smashed within 24 hours and soon increased to £1,000; now, Jackie has raised nearly £3,000.

When asked if she would like to continue cycling, Jackie said: “Not likely. Would you like to buy a bike?”

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Jackie-Tagg