A Massive Thanks from me for supporting me in achieveing my goal of riding a stage of the Tour De France and for the donations to the  Multiple Sclerosis Society.

I finished the ride with my mate Peter in 11hr 33mins. There's a new picture on the justgiving site from the end of the ride at the top of the Col Du Tourmalet.

(Pete had also lost 5st since I encouraged him back onto his bike last November, which perhaps explains why he was a little worse for wear at the top.. It was an emotional finish!)

The temperatures soared to 35C in the afternoon and the final climb took 3.5 hours. It was relentless, but thankfully we cycled all the way.

Of the 10,000 who started, less than 7,000 finish.

Support from the French crowds was incredible, in every village from the 7am start to early evening up the final climb.

Thankyou very much, also from the MS Society who do great work with people affected by the condition!

Remind me to buy you a thankyou beer when we next meet.

For those who are interested in how the Pros do it, the same stages is on ITV4 7pm on Thursday... It didnt look as effortless when I roder it!

Nick