A County Durham man is to take on a daunting yet thrilling challenge in just over a month's time as he aims to bike thousands of miles in a bid to raise £10,000 for charity.

Stephen Milligan, 38, will bike from the top of Scotland all the way down the east coast in 50-mile stints in an effort to raise funds for Cancer Research UK and Spear, a homeless charity in London.

Stephen, who lives in Bishop Auckland, says the 50-day ride which begins in April is about "paying it forward" after he received life-saving help from Spear.

The Northern Echo: Stephen Milligan from Bishop Auckland.Stephen Milligan from Bishop Auckland. (Image: STEPHEN MILLIGAN)

"I was homeless for ten years," Stephen explained. "If it wasn't for them I would not be here now."

"I have never done anything like this before, and it's starting to feel a little bit scary!"

Along the way, Stephen will be riding solo and sleeping in a tent at each of his stops.

He also has plans to livestream his efforts on Facebook and TikTok as he now appeals to the public to drum up support. 

Stephen added: "I am really nervous, but excited too. I'm looking forward to seeing the sights and travelling around the UK.

"It's something I've always wanted to do. Doing that and raising money at the same time is amazing."

Stephen has now launched a GoFundMe page where donations to help him reach his goal are warmly accepted.

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On the fundraiser page, he wrote: "Over 50 days, I'll pedal through breath-taking landscapes, all in support of two causes very close to my heart: Cancer Research and a homeless charity that once provided me with crucial support during a difficult time in London.

"This journey won't just be about miles on the road; it'll be a shared experience streamed live on YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok.

"You can join me every step of the way as we raise awareness and funds for these important causes! But I can't do this alone. I need YOUR help!"