A BASINGSTOKE dad has taken on a huge cycling challenge this weekend, just months after becoming serious about the sport.

Stuart Jarvis, 33, is taking part in the London 2 Paris 24 – cycling 280 miles over the course of just one day.

The father-of-one, who works as a sales manager, has already raised an impressive £1,300 thanks to donations from his colleagues, friends and family, as well as a stationary bike ride outside Sainsbury’s, Hatch Warren.

He is hoping to raise even more before the ride itself, which he will attempt today and Sunday.

Mr Jarvis said: “I used to be a fairweather cyclist, but in the last few months I have been getting more serious about it.

“I booked this ride in October last year, which has definitely been the motivation to train.

“I have been riding at night and in all weathers to try and prepare as much as possible.”

Riders taking on the challenge will cycle non-stop for 24 hours, except for the ferry crossing between England and France.

All money raised from the ride will go towards the charity Scope.

To make a donation to Stuart visit justgiving.com/Stuart-Jarvis.