A cyclist is gearing up for a mammoth charity bike ride encompassing five capital cities across Britain and Ireland.

Ben Lawrence, 26, will begin his quest outside his home in Berriman Road, Holloway, on Saturday before setting off on the three week trek.

Mr Lawrence will cycle more than 900 miles across the British Isles in the hope of reaching a target of �1,500 for Cancer Research UK, a charity which has personal significance to him.

He said: “A few people I know have been quite badly affected by cancer.

“My girlfriend’s grandmother is currently suffering from breast cancer, so that’s a big reason behind doing this.”

Confident

The route, devised by Mr Lawrence, will take in the five capital cities of Britain and Ireland.

He starts in London and rides to Cardiff, Dublin, Belfast and Edinburgh before returning to London on August 22.

Mr Lawrence, a keen cyclist who rode from Newcastle to Dublin in 2007, is optimistic ahead of this latest challenge, despite the daunting task of having to average 60 miles per day.

He said: “I’m a bit nervous, but I’m also confident, it should be really fun. I’m sure the pain barrier will kick in at some point but it’s for a great cause so that will motivate me to push on.”

To make a donation visit www.5capitalscycle.moonfruit.com which will also feature a daily video diary detailing his experiences.