A German cyclist who completed a 1,000-mile journey across Britain had his bicycle stolen at West Jesmond metro station in Newcastle shortly after finishing the ride.
Christoph Held, 48, tackled the long-distance route from Land's End to John O'Groats. He traveled through Wales, the Lake District, Carlisle, and Scotland.
>>> Eurostar Launches Direct London to Antwerp Rail Service in December
Held, a former assistant teacher in Newcastle during the early 2000s, undertook the journey to explore more of the country.
He climbed Snowdon, Scafell Pike, and Ben Nevis on his rest days.
After arriving at the northernmost point of mainland Britain, Held traveled down to Newcastle to relax and sightsee.
Thieves targeted his locked bicycle outside the station.
"I couldn't believe it," said Held.
He noted the contrast between the kindness he experienced throughout his journey and the sudden loss of his bicycle.
"I have always liked the UK, I like seeing the different parts of it," said Held.
He explained that his motivation stemmed from a desire to visit new locations across the country.
"I wanted to see more of the country after my time in Gosforth, and my plan was to climb the three tallest peaks on my way," said Held.
Throughout the trek, locals routinely showed hospitality, offering him places to camp and meals.
>>> Broadcom Shares Outpace Market Driven by Record AI Revenues
"People have been so friendly, what is different to Germany is that people really wanted to help - they didn't just offer," said Held.
