AN Andover man successfully completed a 24 hour cycle to raise money for Naomi House and Jacksplace.

Matt Simmons took on the challenge at Andover Golf Club where he is the club tailor and was able to raise £370 for the Naomi House Caterpillar Appeal.

After the ride Matt said: “It pretty much went to plan, I couldn't have done it without the members of the club, special thanks to Mark Gates, and my supporters who were amazing!

“It was a thoroughly difficult and an amazing challenge and it was worth every single agonising moment.

“Around 18 hours in the pain from the saddle was very intense so I ended up wearing two pairs of shorts it did not cure the pain but it was more bearable.

“Hours 14 to18 though were the most mentally tough. It was a very deep dark place but I made it through with the help of my fantastic crew.

“Having the extra bike there for people to come and join in was a great idea and a fantastic motivator, and as the evening went on members of the club were being sponsored to come and join me which made for great fun!”

A 24 hour cycle might be enough to put anyone off taking to the saddle again, however for Matt this was part of his training for a world record attempt later this year.

Matt and his crew will be attempting to cycle from Lands End to John O’Groats and back, the current record stands at 5 days, 21 hours and 8 minutes for the 1690 mile journey.