Decisions made under the influence of alcohol have a tendency to be disastrous.

However, when Scott Begbie decided to cut down on booze and pork scratchings and start back on the road to good health, it was a decision that benefitted the local commnity.

It had been an ordinary night down the boozer when Scott, features editor on the Aberdeen Evening Express, discussed the idea of getting fit with a close mate. This mate just happened to be in training for a mammoth bike ride and when he suggested that Scott joined him, Scott said yes.

The itinerary for the adventure seemed quite intimidating at first. The pair planned to ride from Stonehaven to Bramaer, then over to Pitlochay and then on to Glendoll before returning home – a round journey of 250 miles in just four days.

It didn’t seem achievable for a man who hadn’t done any significant exercise since his school days. Yet as his training became more intense, Scott gained confidence and it wasn’t long before he decided to make the trip a charity event by getting sponsorship for it.

He told HoldTheFrontPage: “As I was going to be doing it anyway, I thought I may as well do it for a cause. Besides, it gave me something to write about in my column every week!”

Scott chose the Aberdeen Evening Express’ main charity, Children 2000, which raises money towards local children’s projects.

As the weeks went by and the bike ride approached, Scott was amazed to find he had raised more than £200 in sponsorship. Now all he had to do was complete the thing – easier said than done!

He said: “Not long after we had begun, I injured my left knee and for a while it was unclear whether I was going to be able to continue.”

Fortunately, following generous amounts of Deep Heat, the two riders were able to continue.

However, the conditions weren’t exactly helpful.

Scott said: “Round every corner there seemed to be another hill to ride up and with blustering winds and lashing rain, the trip turned out to be a real test of character.”

But there were compensations.

Scott said: “At night we would find a nice pub wherever we were and relax over a cool pint of Guinness. It was good because it allowed us to soak up the local atmosphere.”

Despite the injury, and appalling weather, the two returned home within the time limit to a hero’s welcome. They are now planning to repeat the trip next year – but reversing the route.

In the meantime, Scott can raise a glass to his good work for local children.

He said: “I feel quite proud of what I’ve achieved. What started as a drunken scheme has turned into a personal triumph.”

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