15 minutes | Monday, 27 February 2023
Episode six covers the finale as the group of 17 amateur cyclists were set to complete the ‘Iron to Iron’ bike ride from Meldon Viaduct in Devon, returning home for a welcome party at the Bennerley Viaduct astride Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. A sixth day on the bike, but a lighter 30 miles with an afternoon finish in sight.
With friends joining them enroute, the cyclists left Moira for Burton on Trent in Staffordshire, before stopping in Derby city centre to marvel at Grade II listed Friar Gate Bridge.
Jeff Wynch, chair of the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct committee was part of the welcome party under the viaduct and spoke to Erewash Sound’s Lewis on the importance of the ride for awareness of the monument. Emma Sweeney from Work Monuments Fund Britain also spoke on visiting to congratulate the cyclists, ahead of the official opening of the viaduct to the public.
The cyclists arrived home to the viaduct to a warm reception of friends, family, partner organisations and members of the press to document the milestone of six days cycling completed. An engineering heritage story joining the two remaining wrought iron viaducts in the country, both with a new life and a bright future ahead of them for cyclists and pedestrians to enjoy the rich history and fantastic views.