A BRIDPORT man cycled 140 miles to raise money for the people of Ukraine – and exceeded his fundraising target by over £2,000.

Laurence Boon committed to the gruelling ride - to Bristol and back - after reflecting on what he could do to support those affected by the Russian invasion. He donated £50 himself, with money raised going to Unicef, but wanted to try and do a bit more.

Mr Boon set off on the morning of March 7 from his home and rode the 70 miles to Bristol, where he works.

Arriving around 2pm he then completed half a day’s work before getting his head down, ready for the return trip the following day. Mr Boon arrived back in Bridport around 5.30pm on March 8.

Before the ride Mr Boon said: “You might think that because I cycle moderately frequently during the summer that this would be a doddle - but I can honestly say that this is a big challenge for me and not something that I will achieve easily or without significant toil.

“The route is around 70 miles each way and includes 4,688 ft of climbing. I am nervous about the commitment - but it wouldn't be much of a challenge if I wasn't!”

Mr Boon set himself the challenge of raising £350 but ended up collecting a total of £2,367.

Upon completing the challenge Mr Boon said: “Mentally and physically I was pooped! I was freezing cold during the ride to Bristol as it was only 1 degree when I set off, it was actually so cold my navigation system died just two hours into the ride because of it. My wife had to come bring me spare batteries. Overall, it was really tough.

“Thank you to everyone who donated. I felt so helpless with everything going on in Ukraine but between the support from everyone and donations that helplessness has been reduced. It’s enabled me to have the feeling that I can be calm for a little while because I’ve done something to help.”

Mr Boon will warmly welcome more donations to his fundraiser that is still open. You can find the Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/140-mile-cycle-commute