A MAN who took on a challenge to cycle up and down Rosedale Chimney in the North York Moors the equivalent of the height of Everest has raised more than £5,000 for charity.

Mike Metcalfe, 55, from Newby Wiske, was inspired to challenge himself to riding repeatedly up and down Rosedale Chimney – a notoriously steep one in three incline in the North York Moors until he has completed 29,000 feet – to raise cash for Alzheimer’s Research.

He was also raising money for Rosedale Care Home in Catterick Garrison, where both his parents live, and his father with dementia is cared for.

Mr Metcalfe completed his ride – known as ‘Everesting’ - on Saturday, July 23 at 6am and work his way through the night until he completes the challenge on Sunday, July 24 lunchtime.

The donations were to two charities, raising £1,918.24 for Rosedale Care Home in Catterick Garrison and £3,190.53 for Alzheimer's Research UK.

Mr Metcalfe said: “It was a fantastic day, perfect weather conditions and I had lots of support from friends and family, plus once local people realised what I was doing they came up to support me to.

“We had a base camp where everyone was sitting and ringing cow bells for me. I climbed the hill 51 times and descended 51 times; it took 17 minutes for each climb and about two minutes to get back down.

“I just want to thank everyone who came to support me, and everyone who contributed financially.”