Fareham dad wants to set up own charity after cycle fundraiser

Mark West completed the 300-mile journey from London to Paris and has raised more than £6,000 for the people affected by November’s attacks.

The 36-year-old was inspired to do the ride after his daughters wanted to help the victims.

After weeks of training, Mark set off from London and finished in Paris after 23 hours and 27 minutes – he had hoped to complete it within 24 hours.

He says: ‘It was really difficult.

‘It was one of the hardest things I have done since leaving the forces.

‘For the last 90 miles I could not keep any liquid down and kept being sick where I was so dehydrated. I could have given up then but I forced myself to carry on.

‘While my mind was still able to do it, I forced my body to carry on.

‘It was one of the best but toughest things I have ever had to do.’

The money raised will be donated to the Red Cross.

After completing his challenge, Mark has been inspired to start his own charity and continue raising money.

Brooke and Chloe also want to help and get hands-on with the charity.

Mark said: ‘My daughters have inspired me to want to do more.

‘Now, we want to do even more and I am setting up my own charity. They want to be involved more and eventually we hope to visit the people affected by the attacks.’