A MAN from Pewsey has just completed a 100-mile cycle challenge around London to raise money for the Children Cancer Charity.

James Mahon, 39, of Swan Meadow, travelled with his wife Antonia and two children Eliza and Henry to London on Saturday so he could prepare for this year’s Prudential London Ride. The ride, which was entered by 25,000-30,000 cyclists, started from the Olympic Park and followed the same route taken by the cyclists during the Olympic Games.

Mr Mahon said: “I chose the Children’s Cancer Charity to cycle for because I know someone who has a young child with cancer, and as a father who has young children I would hate to be in that position. So far, with Gift Aid, I have raised £1,000 for the charity which is great.”

With roads closed around central London on the Saturday, Mr Mahon took the chance to take his family on a bike ride around the city, showing his kids all of the main sights before stopping at Buckingham Palace.

“They had a great time. I know recently there has been a lot about getting people into cycling from a younger age so this was a great opportunity,” Mr Mahon added.

On Sunday (Mr Mahon took his bike to the Olympic Park and joined the large crowd to prepare for the long journey ahead.

“I finished it in just over six hours. The roads had to be closed occasionally because of accidents, and sadly one man died of a heart attack, but it was a big challenge to take part in. Riding through the closed streets of London was very atmospheric,” he said.

Anyone who wishes to donate to Mr Mahon’s fundraising efforts can find his page at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JamesMahon.