THE triumphant troop of walkers who completed the 900 mile trek from Land’s End to John O’Groats for the Steve Prescott Foundation was welcomed to the mayor’s parlour for a civic reception.

The eight-strong team including former Saints captain Paul Sculthorpe ex-Saint Tommy Martyn and Warrington Wolves legend Lee Briers completed the challenge in less than 12 days, raising more than £25,000.

Each of the walkers endured their own problems during the walk with fatigue and lack of regular sleep.

Scully said: “It’s the hardest challenge I’ve ever undertaken.”

Pictures posted on social media of his infected big toe showed the toll it was taking on their bodies.

Lee Briers suffered shin splints and a stress fracture to his leg. And Tommy Martyn suffered eight major blisters on his feet on day one.

Fellow team member Jimmy Gittins, who is a paraplegic as a result of an injury playing rugby league, took part in a specially designed hand cycle and despite struggling with a badly swollen elbow he battled through the pain.

Despite the tiredness and exhaustion the team received constant support from fans on Twitter and Facebook.

Former football referee and cancer survivor Mark Halsey received backing from former Liverpool forward Michael Owen on Twitter.

Mark tweeted: “In Aviemore, I am absolutely shattered not far now did not comprehend how difficult this would be I will not let you down those who support me.”