A CYCLIST has completed a 1,000-mile ride in memory of his late father. Toby Humphrey took just nine days and 20 minutes to pedal from Land's End to John O'Groats.

A CYCLIST has completed a 1,000-mile ride in memory of his late father.

Toby Humphrey took just nine days and 20 minutes to pedal from Land's End to John O'Groats, raising more than �2,000 for charity in the process.

He embarked on the challenge in memory of his father, Geoffrey, who died suddenly on a train between Ipswich and Manningtree in March.

The cash raised will go to the Sue Ryder Chantry care home - a cause close to his dad's heart.

Dad-of-two Mr Humphrey, 40, of Birch Drive, Brantham, was joined on the mammoth ride by friend Kevin Cousins, 29.

The Port of Felixstowe worker said: “Finishing was a bit of an anti-climax. Physically, I felt good - in fact I wanted to go for another bike ride.

“The hills were a bit bigger when we got to the Highlands, they really taxed our legs, but the ride went well.

“We put our waterproofs on just twice - the weather was brilliant.”

Mr Humphrey's dad was found dead in a train carriage by a fellow passenger on March 3.

After taking early retirement in 1986, the 78-year-old dedicated much of his life to volunteering and charity work, including running the Brantham Scouts. One of his pack - Adrian Sluce - was later admitted to The Chantry.

Mr Humphrey said: “I am in the mood to do something like this again although I would have to talk to the wife first.

“I would like to take on a challenge with my son, David. He's only 11 at the moment so we might have to wait a few years.”

If you would like to sponsor the pair, visit www.justgiving.com/tobyhumphrey