A biochemistry student from Ethiopia has completed a 2.5-month, 874-mile cycle from John O'Groats to Dover on a homemade wooden bicycle, raising money for Age UK and an Ethiopian charity. Yonas Tekle, 24, built the bike with recycled materials including an old flip-flop for the brake, after learning to cycle as an adult.
Tekle, who came to England eight years ago, took a year out from Imperial College London to stay with his uncle in Leeds. He joined a community workshop called Hackspace, where director Mark suggested the journey. Despite friends and family doubting he would last a mile, he set off with minimal supplies—no tent, only a tarp and one cotton shirt.
He faced harsh weather, including Storm Floris in the Scottish village of Dalwhinnie, where a couple offered shelter and arranged an air mattress in a community hall. Throughout the trip, strangers provided food, accommodation in homes, gardens, village halls, and even barns. In Tomatin, he helped builders with bricklaying in exchange for a night's stay.
The wooden bicycle drew attention wherever he went, leading to donations and support. After his chain broke near Newcastle, cyclists helped him hitchhike to a shop that fixed it for free. A man in Haynes, Bedfordshire, replaced his front wheel with one from his daughter's bike.
Tekle also connected with Ethiopian communities across the UK, who hosted him and followed his progress on social media. Upon reaching Dover, a group of 10 Ethiopians from London met him with food, music, and a trophy. He raised funds for Age UK and Mekedonia, an Ethiopian charity for vulnerable people.
Reflecting on the journey, Tekle said: 'I had previously felt the absence of community in my life: doing this adventure made the world feel bigger. The community helped me finish my journey. Not money or my resilience – just the kindness of strangers.'
