Swindon man cycles 10k miles in less than a year for Mind

Mark Spreckley, who took on the challenge to raise money for mental health charity Mind, reached his target on Saturday, September 21.

He set himself the goal of cycling 200 miles a week from January 1 until the end of the year, but reached his goal with more than three months to spare.

Mark Spreckley said the challenge was immense (Image: Mark Spreckley) Mr Spreckley said: "I decided to challenge myself to ride 10,000 miles this year - more than I’ve ever cycled in a year before - and wanted to help as many people as possible who are suffering with their mental health.

"Mind is the best way to help people through crisis situations and help support individuals and their families get back on track."

Mr Spreckley began his challenge on January 1, cycling through "the cold and rain", through to March.

Mark Spreckley has raised almost £2,300 so far (Image: Mark Spreckley) He continued: "After Easter I completed a mammoth ride - Manchester to Chiseldon, 187 miles or 302 km.

"This might seem hard but it’s not as hard as some of the challenges mental health can present. I finished riding with my family, just a short ride to the pub to celebrate."

He said the challenge was "immense" and "at times felt relentless" but was "fun" and gave him a "great sense of achievement".

Mark Spreckley finished his challenge with more than three months to spare (Image: Mark Spreckley) He thanked everyone who has donated to Mind so far and encouraged people to donate via his JustGiving page.

He said: "Mental health is so important and Mind do incredible things to prevent crisis, help those in crisis and rehabilitate people who are struggling.

"With currently the highest ever suicide rate, and an estimated one in six children struggling with their mental health, we should not underestimate the importance of this charity and the work they do.

"Mind have helped me and I hope if you need them they can help you too."

Mark Spreckley (Image: Mark Spreckley) He also thanked everyone who had ridden with him throughout the year, who made the challenge "fun and exciting".

He added: "I have been surprised at the number of people who have talked with me about their experience with mental health problems of their own or family members.

"I do hope that Mind can help anyone who needs some support."

Mr Spreckley has invited people to join him on a short, celebratory ride, which will be followed by a drink, on October 5.