MICHAEL Boden will embark on the challenge of a lifetime when he attempts to cycle from John O' Groats to Land's End within seven days.

The 33-year-old from Mere Road, Norton, will average a daunting distance of 142-mile per day in the saddle but is relishing the challenge which will get underway this Saturday (August 23).

He said: "I could have taken my time to complete the ride - but then it wouldn't be challenging enough."

The medical professional, who works for Olympus KeyMed, had planned to complete the ride on his own but he will now be accompanied by friend Jamie Jenkins who heard of his challenge and asked to join in.

He said: "I used to attend spinning classes at the Fitness Emporium in Hagley Road where Jamie took charge of the classes. When I told him about the challenge, he said it was something he always wanted to do."

Michael will be raising funds for Birmingham Children's Hospital's eye department - a cause close to his heart as it helped his 21-month-old daughter Eliza, who was born with a cataract which left her without sight in her left eye.

He said: "They do loads of great work with so many children and without their expertise, our own story could be quite different."

Michael has already raised around £3,000 and Olympus have promised to match whatever amount he raises.

They has also donated a support vehicle, which Michael's friend Olusanu Salako has taken a week off work to drive.

He added: "Olympus have really got behind us and I can't thank them enough.

"I've never ridden 140 miles in a day, so this is going to be quite something. I've never done a challenge quite like it."

Anyone wishing to sponsor Michael can do so online at http://www.justgiving.com/michaelboden