On 21 August 2006, the South Wales Argus revealed that two employees from a Newport eye care business embarked on an extensive motorcycle tour of Britain to collect funds for a charitable cause.
Graham Pearson and Andre Busuttil, both 29 years old, set out to gather £3,000 for Guide Dogs for the Blind during their 3,700-mile expedition.
The previous Saturday morning saw them depart from outside Specsavers, accompanied by numerous riders from the Malpas Cryx Keepers club for a procession through Newport’s High Street.
Their undertaking was sparked by Ewan McGregor’s 2004 production, The Long Way Round, which showcased a 20,000-mile motorcycle adventure circling the globe.
Mr Pearson, who works as a dispenser manager, explained that after watching the film they felt determined to attempt something comparable. He said they took their tests last October, purchased their motorcycles, and were now setting off.
Mr Busuttil, an optical technician, discussed their strategy of covering 300 miles each day.
Leighton Griffiths, Specsavers director, offered his approval of the scheme, calling it highly commendable. He observed that in a culture where people often prioritise personal gain, it was refreshing to witness someone contributing something to others.
Specsavers also donated £150 towards fuel expenses and a further £150 to Guide Dogs for the Blind.
Their inaugural destination was planned to be Haverfordwest, with the ambition of arriving back in Newport within 16 days.