AN OKEHAMPTON man is taking on the challenge of setting a new world record, by cycling the gruelling route from Land's End to John O' Groats in just six days.

Chairman of Okehampton Running Club, Andy Vallance is taking on the challenge, which covers a distance of around 1,800 miles, for Devon Air Ambulance.

Fitness fanatic Andy said he was keen to beat the world record, which is held by a man from Cornwall.

Andy said: 'I actually know the guy who holds the current world record of doing it in just six days and 20 hours.

'The weather will be a big factor on how difficult it will be, especially with the headwind.

'It's going to be a real challenge but I feel confident that I can do it.'

A keen cyclist and runner, Andy took part in this years London marathon, which he completed in just two hours and 47 minutes.

He has also conquered the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

In 2007, Andy challenged himself to ride the length of the country in just seven days.

'I overcame this but felt I could have done it a bit quicker, so I looked into the world records.

'The record is going to test me to the limit but I feel confident I can do it.'

Andy said he has undertaken a rigorous training programme in preparation for his cycling challenge

'I have been training hard and have already done a 200-mile bike ride to Bristol and back and I've also been doing 100 mile bike rides.'

Andy will be starting his challenge on Monday, June 1, when he will head for Shrewsbury for the first leg of his journey, of around 305 miles.

He will move on to Lockerbie, north of Carlisle, before reaching John O' Groats by the Wednesday, June 3.

He will then turn around for his return journey, aiming to get back to Lands End on Saturday, June 6.

Anyone wishing to follow Andy's challenge and make a donation can visit http://www.teamvallance.co.uk">www.teamvallance.co.uk