GURKHAS marking 200 years in the British Army completed a 202-mile cross country cycle in some of the worst weather this winter.

The eight man team encountered blizzard conditions and had to carry their bikes through snow drifts to reach England’s highest pub, the Tan Hill Inn, near Reeth, North Yorkshire, to ensure they completed their coast to coast trip.

Lance Corporal Rashon Gurung,31, originally from Pokhara, West Nepal, said: “The mountain bike challenge was the hardest thing I've ever done. The snow and freezing conditions made the cycling very difficult.

"It is colder here in the UK than in Nepal. But everyone we've met has been very friendly and interested in our culture and what we are doing cycling across North Yorkshire in deep snow.

“The track to Tan Hill was blocked due to snow drifts and we had to carry our bikes up the hill.

"It was like being back in the mountains of Nepal. We were really grateful to the Tan Hill Inn, and the Lion Inn at Blakey Ridge on the North York Moors for the warm welcome, open fires and hot drinks.

"The open fires helped in thawing out frozen feet and drying out wet shoes and socks along the way," he added.

The team successfully completed the trek in six days. Other events being held for the bi centenary include a Guard of Honour and Memorial Service at the Gurkha Statue in June, climbing Mount Everest and running the South Downes Way.

Contributions to the Gurkha Welfare Trust can be made at justgiving.com/lekalikhukuri