Cyclist takes on 1000-mile challenge for Women's Refuge

Mart Solan, from Redlynch, is pedalling the length of Britain in support of Salisbury Women’s Refuge, hoping to raise more than £2,000 for the charity.

Mr Solan, 54, said: "I have always been inspired by explorers and those that take on challenges and wanted to see for myself whether I could achieve something that seemed impossible to me.

"The low likelihood of success was an attraction to me, and I wanted to demonstrate to my children that you can achieve a lot when you put your mind to it."

A marine biologist at the University of Southampton, Mr Solan has been preparing for the challenge with a rigorous training schedule.

Mr Solan set off Land's End on July 26 and is aiming to reach John O'Groats on August 8.

He said: "In the last 3 months I have completed 3009.3 km distance and climbed 34,785m elevation in 144 hours 16 min 5 sec.

"All that used 128,582 calories!

"I have also been adjusting my diet, trying to get my energy and nutrient levels to where they need to be, with mixed success."

Mr Solan chose to support Salisbury Women’s Refuge to help raise awareness of an issue that often remains hidden.

He said: "Domestic abuse, most often against women, is a lot more common than people think and often goes unchallenged as it’s not always visible.

"In my own small way, I wanted to create awareness and help ensure that vital resources, shelter, and support are always available for those who need them within our local community."

While he has no personal connection to the refuge, Mr Solan hopes his journey will make a difference for those in need.

His family has been supportive, albeit a little surprised when he first shared his plans.

"My children have provided good solid advice: ‘don’t faint and don’t crash’ and ‘don’t worry about being first, just get to the end,’" Mr Solan said.

Although training has sometimes felt monotonous, he has been buoyed by encouragement from friends and colleagues.

Supporters can follow his progress live each day at ridewithmart.co.uk, where updates and messages can be left to spur him on.

He said: "People have been very generous and given what they can afford, and I am just so encouraged and pleased that my cycling attempt has inspired people to help those in need."

To support Mr Solan, visit gofundme.com/f/marts-1000-mile-coffee-cake-crawl