SOLO cyclist Jeff Snell has completed a round Britain trip of more than 2,000 miles after being inspired by his father's battle against cancer.

Mr Snell set off from his parents' house in Shildon, in the middle of June to cycle to John O'Groats and Lands End and back, to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

The 29-year-old decided to tackle the gruelling challenge after his father was diagnosed with secondary cancer of the liver.

He returned home after completing 2,219 miles, to a hero's welcome by friends and proud parents David and Joyce.

David Snell, former headteacher of Henknowle Primary School and chairman of New Shildon Residents' Association, said: "We are really proud of him. We were amazed when he first said that he was going to do it. We have had a map up at the Salvation Army Hall to keep track of where he has been."

For Jeff, it was a lonely trip at times and quite gruelling in the heat but he was spurred on by text messages of support and phone calls from home.

He said: "It was the support of people that helped me get round. They were always texting and ringing me. There was many a time when I just wanted to go home.''

It is hoped the mammoth journey will raise more than £3,000 for the charity.