A CYCLIST born and raised in Taunton is attempting to break a world record by cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats and back in just 6 days.

Ben Rockett, 23, is also using the challenge to raise money for charity Cardiac Risk in the Young, who are dedicated to reducing the frequency of sudden cardiac deaths in young people.

Mr Rockett began his journey at 9am on August 21 and reached John O’Groats at around 10pm on August 23 – just over two and a half days later and four hours ahead of schedule.

The current record for the 1,781-mile journey is six days and twenty hours, set by Bobby Brown in 2000.

Mr Rockett, who is currently studying for a PHD in Children’s Mental Health and Animal Assisted Therapies at Bath University, is no stranger to long distance cycling, having previously cycled across America, run several marathons and climbed Mount Kilimanjaro.

He hopes his gruelling challenge will be an inspiration to the children he works with, stating on his personal blog: “With enough effort and determination, we are all capable of achieving exceptional feats. Sometimes people just need a little extra encouragement.”

Dr Eric Anderson, one of Mr Rockett’s teachers at the University, was quick to praise his dedication.

He said: “There is only one word to describe Ben Rockett and that is absolutely driven, in everything he does especially his studies. His crazy idea of cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats is an example of that.”

Harry Lee, a friend of Mr Rockett, added: "When he gets his mind set on something he gets it done, he doesn't know when to stop!"

You can keep up with Ben's progress or help him raise money for Cardiac Risk in the Young by clicking the link below.