Cyclist who collided with support vehicle vows to complete 900-mile challenge

A CYCLIST unable to finish a non-stop bike ride for charity because of a collision has a new plan to complete the 900-mile challenge.

Former Southwell resident, Andrew Swain, was on track to complete the non-stop journey from John O'Groats to Land's End within his target 65 hours before he collided with his support vehicle.

Although no one was hurt, the bike was beyond repair and Andrew had to cut short his journey after completing 351 miles.

Andrew has now decided to restart his challenge, but complete the 900 miles on roads that he is familiar with around Southwell.

He said: "I've done all the training so it's only right that I complete it. I never intend to start things and not finish them.

"The safest thing to do is to do it with roads I know and I have chosen roads that commuters aren't likely to use.

"I know the route and I know where the potholes are. It's safer to do it close to home."

Andrew will cycle the 900 miles in a 25.54 mile loop, which starts with a 7-mile cycle to the start at midnight on October 8.

He will park his van near the start of the loop on Church Street, Southwell, where he can stop for refreshments every two laps.

To complete the challenge, Andrew will have to cycle the route 35 times.

Andrew has raised £2,925 for Reach, a charity that helps children with upper limb difficulties.

The 44-year-old says that the reaction has been amazing. He said: "People have been fantastic. I can't thank them enough."