A DUMBARTON man who cycled a mammoth 450-mile route from Wembley to Hampden Park for a children’s charity has hailed the experience as a fantastic achievement.

Stephen Thompson was part of a group of Tartan Army Scotland football supporters who biked the route over five days, getting to Hampden in time to watch his side’s 2-2 draw with England, on Saturday.

The effort was done in aid of the Tartan Army Sunshine Appeal (TASA), which donates money to children’s charities in countries in which the Scotland national team has played.

And while the group got through the ride unscathed, setting off from north London in tempestuous weather tested the resolve and patience of Mr Thompson and the rest of the team.

“The first 25 miles coming out of London was horrendous,” said Mr Thompson, a Royal Navy warrant officer.

“I think I speak for the whole group when I say it was the most difficult part of the whole ride.

“It was torrential rain and 40mph winds and very testing.”

The team set off from Wembley on Tuesday June 6, and were waved off by former Scotland manager Alex McLeish.

The group, who are backed by energy supplier SSE, have raised more than £15,000 so far for TASA.

Despite the testing conditions, Stephen said the arrival at Scotland’s sacred home of football greeted by family and friends is one members of the eight-strong group will cherish.

“Once it started clearing up at Larkhall, you could tell the spirits were lifting and we realised we didn’t have far to go,” said Mr Thompson.

“Once we arrived at Hampden, we had the flags up and started cycling around the ground. Some of the guys had family and friends there to meet us.

“The flags were flying, the smiles on people’s faces were great, once we’d realised the achievement of what we’d done.

“It was such a phenomenal experience and achievement for everyone.

“We’re all amateur cyclists, and some are more amateur than others!”

Saturday’s World Cup qualifier finished in a draw after an injury-time equaliser by England’s Harry Kane denied Scotland a famous win, after Celtic striker Leigh Griffiths had curled in two long-range free-kicks late on.

Despite the setback, Stephen said the roar which erupted when the hosts went 2-1 up will live long in the memory.

“We all made it to the game on time, sober, which is completely unheard of!” added Mr Thompson. “And even though England equalised, the team played really well.”

SSE is proud to support the TASA charity bike ride.

For more information and to donate go to: www.tasabikeride.co.uk/donate.