05:00, 23 April 2026
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
Bassists Ross MacDonald (The 1975) and Brian MacDonald (PVRIS) have swapped stadium stages for saddle sores, completing an extraordinary 1,180-mile “LEJOG” cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats—all in support of music therapy charity Nordoff and Robbins. Alongside friends Darren and Matt, the group spent two gruelling weeks pushing their physical and mental limits, raising more than £32,000 so far, with donations still open here.
The route, one of the UK’s most iconic endurance challenges, saw the team ride up to 100 miles a day and climb a staggering 23,218 metres—the equivalent of scaling Mount Everest more than twice. Battling unpredictable British weather, mechanical failures, and sheer exhaustion, the four riders leaned on camaraderie and a shared purpose to reach the northernmost tip of mainland Scotland.
“What an experience,” said Ross MacDonald. “There were moments that pushed me beyond what I thought I was capable of—but also moments of pure joy. To do this with close friends while raising money for such an important cause makes me incredibly proud.”
Brian MacDonald echoed the sentiment, highlighting a visit to a London music therapy session as a turning point. “Seeing firsthand how music therapy helps people made me 100% committed. It was tough, but knowing the impact kept us going.”
Funds raised could support up to 400 music therapy sessions or contribute to training future therapists, each costing around £19,000. Nordoff and Robbins, the UK’s largest music therapy charity, uses music to help people connect and communicate—particularly those affected by conditions such as dementia, autism, and trauma.
Sandy Trappitt, Director of Fundraising, praised the effort: “This incredible challenge will help us reach more people and train more therapists. The support has been truly inspiring.”
The journey has been documented on Instagram, offering a raw and uplifting look at the highs and lows of the ride. With donations still open until 30 April, supporters are encouraged to contribute or share the campaign to help push the total even higher.
In the end, this wasn’t just a test of endurance—it was a powerful reminder of how music, and those who believe in it, can transform lives.
