A MAN from Tavistock completed the emotional and physical challenge of cycling 917 miles from Land's End to John O' Groats in aid of Cancer Research. But not only did 43-year-old Steve Pullen complete the distance in 13 days — a day earlier than expected — he did the whole challenge unsupported. Steve, an engineer for Bombardier, began the trip on April 28 and said the toughest part of the whole cycle was through Devon and Cornwall's notorious hills — but said the journey was an experience of a lifetime. He said: 'It was just me and that was part of the challenge — you only had to think about yourself and stop when you needed to. But during the challenge it was tough, psychologically and emotionally, as no-one was around to support you, but I did have my family on the end of a phone.' While on the 13th day, and 26 miles away from John O' Groats, Steve was given a boost in morale when he received a special surprise. 'Ten miles from Wick, a car pulled up besides me and said "hello stranger" and it was my son,' said Steve. 'He had got a train and then drove 470 miles from Liverpool to be there for me. I was really choked up as I had no idea.' Steve had planned to rest at Wick but at around 3.30pm that day, and after seeing his son, Steve thought to himself 'I can finish this today'. 'I phoned my son and said I was going straight on to John O' Groats and for him to meet me north of Wick with a sandwich, which he did. 'I stopped for ten minutes and then pushed on for another 16 miles to John O' Groats and made it there by 5.40pm.' Steve not only used the experience to raise money for charity but to also enjoy and explore the surroundings along his adventure through the country and capture the moments on camera. He said: 'I wasn't going to beat records, my main aim was to raise money for charity, which I did, in excess of £2,000. 'I was also shown a lot of kindness along the way. I received six out of 14 nights at bed and breakfasts for free and a couple of people even stopped me to give me money. It restored my faith in humanity. 'I can't explain the experience, it was incredible — I would recommend it to everyone.'