A WIGTOWNSHIRE grandmother is recovering after completing an epic cycling adventure across the country in memory of her late children.
Mavis Paterson, of Auchenmalg, raised over £63,000 in her latest challenge where she cycled 1000 miles.
The octogenarian dedicated the cycling adventure to her late children: Sandy died of a heart attack in 2012, Katie lost her life after getting viral pneumonia in 2013 and Bob died in an accident in 2016.
Following this new fundraiser, she has raised around £155,000 in total.
Now home after the gruelling challenge, Mavis yesterday revealed she loved every second. She said: “It was quite emotional when I finished the challenge. I trained so hard for it but I loved every moment of it, even the rotten days!
“To raise over £63,000 is fantastic and, with the other challenge I did, it’s over £150,000, which is fantastic. I can’t thank people enough for their support.
“The friendship was amazing, everywhere I was at someone would be offering meals or anything they could do. I was met with such kindness. I cannot ever forget the kindness I got from complete strangers, people I had never met.”
Mavis, known as Granny Mave, even celebrated her 85th birthday whilst on the road, arriving in Moffat to a celebratory welcome from school children, who showered her in gifts. Later in the evening, a birthday party was held in Moffat Town Hall in her honour.
Mavis said: “It was wonderful. I couldn’t believe it. All of the children there wishing me happy birthday and the party that was arranged was special.”
Another crowd was there to welcome her home when she crossed the finish line last week, but even though the challenge had officially finished she was still on the go.
She said: “I had so many phone calls when I first got back and I was so busy.
“Two days later I was down in Birmingham for the MacMillan Cancer Support Thanks to You Awards but I took ill in the hotel on the day of the event.
“Nothing is ever simple! But I’m getting better now.
“Now I’m back home my feet are up and I’m enjoying the sunshine looking at the beautiful Wigtownshire views.”
Bruce Port, Macmillan’s fundraising manager, said: “Watching Granny Mave cross the finish line and complete another incredible cycling challenge is something I won’t ever forget.
“To achieve what she’s done at any age is a huge accomplishment, but having celebrated her 85th birthday just four days ago, and with two new knees and two new hips, she’s simply amazing.
“She’s one of the most inspiring people I’ve met.
“We’re so grateful Mave chose Macmillan as the charity she wanted to support.”
