A KEEN cyclist from Fordingbridge will be pedalling his way around New Zealand to help improve the lives of diabetes sufferers.

Peter Elbro has set himself the challenge of cycling around 850 miles from Auckland to Wellington in 18 days for Diabetes UK.

The idea was sparked after the 63-year-old booked a long-overdue visit to the country to see an old school friend.

He said: “I figured it would be a pretty good way to see the country, see my friend and raise money.”

Although he will not be embarking on his ride until January 31, he has already been busy preparing – regularly cycling circuits across the New Forest.

He is no stranger to clocking up the miles on his bike and has previously cycled around France, Ireland, and Italy.

Diabetes UK is a cause close to his heart as his daughter Verity suffers from the type-1 condition.

“It is fabulous to be able to raise money for Diabetes UK,” he said.

“My daughter, she is 24 now and has managed diabetes since the age of seven.”

Peter hopes his fundraising efforts will aid vital research to help sufferers by exploring different methods of managing the condition such as an artificial pancreas, which continuously measures blood-glucose levels.

He will also be raising funds for Epilepsy Foundation New Zealand as his friend’s daughter suffers from the condition.

He said: “The money raised will go to research to give people a better quality of life.”

During the cycle ride, which Peter will be doing unaided, he will be filming his adventure on a time-lapse camera and posting regular updates to allow supporters to follow his progress.

To make a donation to Diabetes UK, visit Justgiving.com/PeterElbro.

To keep up-to-date with Peter’s cycle-ride preparations, go to facebook.com and search for Pete’s NZ Cycle Ride.