THE owner of a Tavistock hearing and mobility shop is covering the length of the country by bike in a John O'Groats to Land's End challenge.

Audiologist Alistair Kinsey (pictured right), 39, of Alistair Kinsey Hearing and Mobility in Pym Street, set off for the eight-day challenge last Thursday and is raising money for Plymouth Deaf Children's Society (PDCS).

Employees from hearing technology company Starkey Laboratories, who are sponsoring the ride, joined him on day five as he passed close to their headquarters in Cheshire.

Alistair has four children, one of whom has permanent hearing loss in one ear and has received exceptional support from PDCS.

Alistair said: 'People may think that my wife, who is a nurse, and I would be the best to deal with such an event.

'Anyone who is a parent and has had to deal with a child that is unwell will confirm what you do in your day-job goes out the window.

'Working within the profession, however, does allow my daughter and family to have access to support that most children would not. This is my way of giving back.'

PDCS is a registered charity which organises social events for hearing impaired children and their families throughout Plymouth and South Hams.

'Giving eight days of my life to raise funds for a charity that does so much, stretching my body and mind seems a small amount to give.

'I like the thought of helping in the community and putting something back into society. It's a nice feeling to know you made a difference if only small, at the end of a day.'

Alistair is due to arrive at Land's End today (Thursday).