IT’S a challenge with its fair share of ups and downs.

But the 10 men cycling from Lands End to John O’Groats to raise money for the Steve Bernard Foundation are hoping it will be a smoother ride from now on.

The group, including Tony Bernard and Jacques Bernard, father and brother of Steve, who died in a car accident in 2005, set off from Lands End on Friday to raise money for the charity.

The first two days covered some fairly strenuous hills, with the group due to cover more than 100 miles a day, riding a total distance of more than 950 miles.

And once they’ve reached their destination they will have to get ready for the second part of their challenge – The Three Peaks Challenge, climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and then Snowdon.

Tony Bernard, who is managing director of the foundation, said: “It was hot on Sunday but we had some rain on Monday just as we crossed the Severn Bridge into Wales – just as Jacques predicted as he lives in Cardiff and said it always rains.

“Tuesday saw us go for the longest distance so far – 115miles Ludlow to Preston and it was definitely an eventful day.

“Jim had another puncture – his sixth so far and Steve Hendy and Joe Cole had comedy falls in Wigan town centre at rush hour.

“Both were unhurt, it was just their pride that was damaged.

“Everybody’s legs are holding up but Sudocrem and Vaseline is very popular with us all.”

Yesterday saw them tackle the infamous Shap Hill near Carlisle, which is more than 9miles long.

The Steve Bernard Foundation set up in memory of the youngster has raised thousands of pounds for sporting projects.

To read about the team’s daily journey or to sponsor them go to stevebernardfoundation.com