A 66-year-old man from Budleigh started a mammoth cycling challenge from Budleigh to Lands End and John O Groats this weekend.

Paul Martin started the challenge on Saturday May 17 and is raising funds for Exmouth suicide bereavement charity Pete's Dragons.

The cycle route goes from Budleigh Salterton, to Lands End, up to John O’Groats, and then all the way back to Budleigh, averaging 82 miles a day for 27 days. 

Paul has always been a keen cyclist, hence his desire to complete such a challenging adventure. He competed in races from the ages of 15 to 48, and since retiring from the racing scene, he continues to cycle for enjoyment, as a member of C S Dynamo in Exmouth.

C S Dynamo is one of the reasons why Martin has decided to raise money for Pete’s Dragons, as during his time there, he has known three members who have experienced the devastating effects of losing a relative to suicide.

Expressing his horror at this and discussing his reasons for supporting Pete’s Dragons, he said “This is an incredibly horrifying statistic, especially since we are only a small membership – so I cannot imagine what the national numbers must be. The support that Pere’s Dragons can provide is very much needed.”

Pete’s Dragons will be tracking Paul all the way and providing regular updates via social media.

A spokesman for Pete's Dragons said: "We are delighted and grateful that Paul is using his epic challenge to fundraise for them, as the money that is being raised will go on to make a hugely positive impact to local residents impacted or bereaved by suicide."

For more information about Pete's Dragons and how to get involved, please visit www.petesdragons.org.uk