A CYCLIST raised £170 for charity after he took to the saddle for a 24-hour bike riding challenge.

John Carpenter, 53, from Chandler’s Ford, decided to take part in relay and endurance cycling event Revolve 24, and hoped to “test” himself by completing the ride alone for the first time.

Although it was his fourth year cycling for the event, he previously rode in a team of eight cyclists for the first two years and participated with three other riders last year.

He managed to ride a total of 170 miles throughout the day and night at the Kent-based event, despite facing stomach cramps halfway through - and it was all part of his £1,000 goal to raise money for veteran support charity Help for Heroes.

John, who is the area fundraising manager for Help for Heroes charity, said: “I wanted to test myself and make it a big challenge, so I had to go on my own this year. The whole point of the event is to complete as many laps and miles as you can, and I did that in 170 miles.

“I got stomach cramp as usually your body processes food while you sleep at night, but I was on a bike and eating sporting gels at 11pm at night. I was a bit dizzy but I took a break and got back on the bike.

“I was physically and mentally exhausted, especially with the restriction of no sleep. But it was fantastic and I am so proud of myself.”

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/revolve24-jc.