A COLCHESTER DJ has begun his epic cycle ride from John O’Groats to Land’s End to raise money for armed forces charity, Help for Heroes.

Heart FM breakfast show presenter Wyatt Wendels began his 874-mile trip yesterday and is aiming to complete the ride in six days.

The official Road Records Association record for rider on a conventional bicycle is 44 hours, four minutes and 20 seconds, set by Gethin Butler in 2001, but the association says a more typical cycling time is ten to 14 days.

Wyatt said: “The shortest day will be about 135 miles and the longest 185 miles, which means I will be cycling from dawn to dusk on consecutive days, without any support.”

Wyatt has taken part in several bike rides in the Colchester area including, the Tour de Tendring and the Castle to Castle bike race.

He added: “I wanted to try something a little different and a bit special in order to give something to a fantastic charity.”

To back him, visit www.justgiving.com/wyatt-wendels