THE assistant manager of a Melksham timber merchant has raised £700 for charity from his latest challenge.

Robbie Newton, assistant branch manager at Travis Perkins, has completed 100 miles on a static exercise bike in his back garden while dressed as morphman.

Mr Newton was planning to take part in the 100-mile Prudential RideLondon until the event was cancelled because of the Covid-19 Pandemic.

He said: "The Covid-19 pandemic has had a catastrophic effect on the UK’s charities, with the cancellation of thousands of fundraising events and the loss of billions in income.

Many charities have had to reduce or stop services at a time when vulnerable members of society need them most.

"Thousands of staff have been placed on furlough, and one in ten charities face bankruptcy, while the sector as a whole faces a funding gap of more than £10 billion in 2020.

"Over seven years, the Prudential RideLondon festival of cycling has inspired hundreds of thousands of people to get on their bikes, raising £77 million for thousands of charities in the process.

"In place of RideLondon, I cycled on an exercise bike in my back garden dressed as charitymorphman alien edition, which equated to the same 100 mile distance."

In the process,Mr Newton raised £700 for his chosen charity, Macmillan Cancer Support after setting a £450 target.

He added: "Macmillan are here to help everyone with cancer live life as fully as they can, providing physical, financial and emotional support. Whatever cancer throws your way, they are right there with you."

For information or support, call 0808 808 00 00 or visit macmillan.org.uk.

To donate to Mr Newton's appeal, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/charitymorphman