Arriving at Bonar Bridge, the cyclists braved mosquitoes, heat and flies to achieve 106 miles on the first day – averaging 14.7 miles an hour.

Sponsor money is growing all the time –  with £4,000 raised so far.

Bernie said: “But I’ve only raised £222 so far so I need a bit of help. If every loyal Saints supporter gave me just  £1 each on my special fundraising site, that would be £15,000 minimum raised for a good cause.”

The ride aims to swell the coffers of the Northamptonshire Society for Autism, whose president is former Saints player Jon Sleightholme. Autism is a life-long neurological disability that inhibits the development of imagination, communication and social skills causing people with the condition to have difficulties in making sense of the world around them, forming relationships and developing language. 
 
Donations can be made through www.justgiving.com/berniethemascot.

This site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor: Northamptonshire Society for Autism will receive the money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28 per cent in tax will be added to every gift at no cost to the giver.
 
All expenses are being covered by the riders so that every penny raised goes to where it is needed most.