A DETERMINED cyclist has completed a mammoth bike ride across Britain in support of a young woman with a rare disorder.

Mike Kear, 50, of Castle Street, Usk, has smashed his fundraising target to raise £6,500for Bardet-Biedl Syndrome UK charity by cycling from Land’s End to John O’ Groats.

He chose the charity after his friend’s daughter, Ellie Jones, 18, was diagnosed with the disorder which affects one in every 250,000 people around the world.

Cycling 969-miles over nine days in challenging weather conditions, Mr Kear said the ride was a “once in a lifetime experience.”

“We had apocalyptic rain in Bath, rain in Scotland and then breathtaking scenery,” said Mr Kear, who cycled more than 100-miles a day and camped overnight.

“It was a once in a lifetime experience that I will never forget.”

Among Mr Kear’s highlights was riding with cycling star Mark Cavendish, as well as starting and finishing the challenge.

“The finish on Sunday was very emotional, as was coming into Wales,” added Mr Kear.

“I loved the whole event from start to finish, it was truly amazing.”

Support Mr Kear by visiting virginmoneygiving.com/mikekear.