Gloucestershire man cycles from Newent to Istanbul in 41 days

A cyclist has completed a 3,000-mile ride from Gloucestershire to Istanbul in 41 days.

Richard Dorman from Newent took on the challenge in memory of his late friend Peter Vogel, who dreamed of cycling to the city in Turkey.

He is hoping to raise £10,000 to buy two specialist bikes for Gloucester charity Wheels for All.

Mr Dorman said: "It was tough, especially in the Alps, but it's been friendship and love along the way."

He left his home in Newent on 1 September and arrived in Istanbul on 24 October.

"l did not have a support vehicle, and carried all I needed with me on my bike," said Mr Dorman.

He added: "While it had a sad beginning - doing this for my friend who sadly passed - it's amazing where friendship can get you.

"Friends joined me for the ride and we were invited to family tables.

"I learned along the way that Peter meant to go to Istanbul on a motorbike, which was hilarious."

Mr Dorman said he decided to raise money for Wheels for All, a charity which helps people with disabilities to ride bicycles, because it was a "heartwarming place".

Wheels for All Gloucestershire offers accessible cycling sessions using a range of adapted cycles at Blackbridge Athletic Track.

"The simple pleasure of riding a bike is something that most of us take for granted," Mr Dorman said.

"Yet, for many differently-abled people this is simply not a possibility.

"There are many weird and wonderful cycles at Wheels for All.

"Each bike is specially constructed to cater for the need of each rider," he added.

Mr Dorman's fundraiser has currently raised just over £7,500.

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