A man will attempt to cycle 500 miles in 24 hours for charity this weekend.

Richard McDowell, from Flimby, said he was boasting drunkenly with friends at a wedding that he could easily take on the challenge.

Keen to put his money where his mouth is, he’s decided to make good on his claim and has since been training hard.

He will make the attempt on a static bike from Saturday, April 13, to April 14 at Flimby Sports and Social Club.

While he cycles regularly on the machine to stay fit, this 500-mile challenge is a step above his usual workouts, as he explained a personal trainer he is friends with has been helping him along the way, including meal planning.

The plan of action is to do a couple of hours, have a short break, and get back on it, keeping an average speed of roughly 21mph to get to 504 miles in 24 hours, he said.

The aim is to reach the goal and raise £1000 for Cancer Research, of which he’s already raised £750 at the time of reporting.

Cancer has affected people close to him, as he explained: “(My friends) have been affected by it; I’ve had close friends whose parents died of cancer.

“Fortunately it’s never affected me, but if I can do something for people who are affected, it will be a good thing.”

To donate to his fundraiser, visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/richard-mcdowell-1712080062564.