A FATHER-of-two was among a group of 10 people who cycled 1,800 miles on two continents for charity Rethink Mental Illness.

Charles Morley and his team started their challenge in London and finished 16 days later in the Moroccan city of Tangier. They cycled more than 100 miles a day in scorching heat.

They also climbed some of Europe’s highest peaks, including the Col De Pailheres in the French Pyrenees, which stands at 6,565 feet.

Charles, who lives in Baldock, said: “This was a very demanding challenge. On one of the hardest days we cycled 106 miles in 106 degrees Fahrenheit. I was so exhausted of cycling at the end of the 1,800 miles that I gave my bike away in Tangier. However, it was all for a very worthy cause.”

The 45-year-old added: “The pain of people with a mental illness often goes unrecognised and unsupported. If someone has a broken leg, it is obvious what their pain might be. But all too often those with mental illness do so in silence and alone.

“We’re delighted with the level of support we have received and hope we have raised awareness of the difficulties people with a mental illness can face.”

The team has already raised more than £34,000 for Rethink Mental Illness, surpassing their original target of £25,000. You can visit their fundraising page at www.justgiving.com/TOURDE4