A SUBMARINER has raised thousands of pounds for charity after completing an epic bike ride from Lands End to John O’Groats.

Radio supervisor Nicholas Mulholland, from Sunderland, was one of eight cyclists from HMS Vanguard based on the Clyde to complete the journey in 13 days.

On the way, crew members had an unusual stop off, spending one overnight in the recreation area at Minehead Zoo complete with a pirate ship climbing frame.

The 43-year-old Petty Officer said: "The first three-days of the journey were the worst because we had a 52 miler, 65 miler and 85 miles to cover.

"The leg of the journey around Inverness was also a challenge.

"According to weather reports the head winds were over 60mph, so at times you felt as though you were standing still even though pedalling furiously."

The father-of-three, who has served in the Royal navy since 1997, helped raise around £2,000 for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity and the Islay Disabled Endeavours and Action Resource Centre during the journey.