A FORMER West Somerset man went to extreme lengths to help his mum celebrate her birthday – by cycling 1,000 miles in just eight days and raising £7,000 for charity in the process.

Oli Culcheth grew up in Porlock with his sister Lucy and parents Brian and Sheila.

But while mum and dad are still in the village, Oli now lives in Lugano in Switzerland and thought he would surprise Sheila with a surprise birthday visit.

Oli said: "I set off from Lugano on Sunday, June 7, and arrived in Porlock on the 16th, just ahead of my mother's birthday on June 18.

"I took one rest day and covered a distance of 1,028 miles over the nine days, including crossing over the Alps on my first day.

"In total, I spent just over 65 hours in the saddle, so averaging 16mph."

And as well as pulling off the ultimate birthday surprise, Oli used his epic cycle trip to raise money for Parkinson's UK.

His mum was diagnosed with the disease just months before he moved to Switzerland two years ago.

Oli said the challenge was the perfect opportunity to thank his mum for all her support over the years.

"Bear in mind that I'd never even cycled 200km in a day before, let alone every day for eight pretty-much consecutive days, so it was a big challenge for me.

"However, many people face worse struggles each morning, so I figured I should be able to put up with tired legs and a sore bum for a few days.

"Come hell or high-water, I'd be there for her birthday," said Oli.

He averaged around 140 miles a day and completed the journey totally unsupported, meaning he had to carry everything he needed with him at all times.

He said he was extremely grateful to everyone who had sponsored him so far, including the teams at Charge Bikes, Morvelo Bicycle Apparel and Apidura.

Donations can still be made via his online webpage at http://www.justgiving.com/oli-culcheth1">www.justgiving.com/oli-culcheth1.

Oli added: "I would ask people to give what they can towards this cause and fantastic charity in exchange for eight days of my suffering.

"It took the persuasion and support of my family for me to move to Switzerland; it was an extremely tough decision to take, but ever since I can remember, my parents have been more supportive than I could have ever asked.

"For that - and much more - I will be eternally grateful."