DESPITE the adverse weather conditions an estimated 1,000 cyclists left the Greenyards in Melrose on Saturday to raise funds for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.

As always, rugby legend Doddie was there to offer encouragement.

And he seemed to know everyone as he waved and cheered each passing bike – providing much needed encouragement for the journey ahead.

There were three distance options to cater for all cycling abilities, with fully sign-posted routes and medical and mechanical support at every turn.

Among those taking part were a group of Melrose first XV players who took on the ‘Big Yin’ challenge of 93-miles in total.

They headed to Earlston then Kelso, via Smailholm. From Kelso, the players headed out on a loop by Coldstream returning to Kelso then on to Jedburgh where they enjoyed a well-deserved lunch.

From there it was on to Hawick before returning to Melrose via Lilliesleaf, Bowden and Melrose Golf Course.

“The legs are a bit heavy but we are all okay,” club captain Richard Ferguson said. ”I paused my watch when we stopped so I think we cycled for 6-hours. Including the stops, it took about seven hours. It was good to see so many volunteers from other rugby clubs acting as event marshals and Jed Forest put on a really good spear for lunch which was needed.

“It was pretty amazing cycling past Doddie at the start. It’s hard to imagine what he is going through and it would be easy to just accept it and become housebound but he has the determination and courage to enjoy life and he really is an inspiration to all. I think he recognises how big a part he is playing to raise awareness and money to help eradicate MND (Motor Neurone Disease).

“The entrance money alone must have raised well over £50,000 and many riders would have their own sponsorship page. We had hoped top raise £1,000 and are currently at £1145 but it would be nice if we could increase that. Anybody can donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/melroserfc and all donations big or small will be greatly appreciated.”

Richard was joined by fellow players Bruce Colville, David Colville and Gav Ward and were accompanied by former Southern Knight Andrew Nagle.

Others took part in the Doddie5 Classic which was 60 miles through the beautiful countryside of the Scottish Borders via Earlston, Kelso, Jedburgh and Hawick and the Doddie’5 Challenge through Earlston until Smailholm where it heads west and back to Melrose.

The exact total of money raised has not been calculated yet but is sure to be into six figures.