A 72-YEAR-OLD man has pedal powered his way to Rome to raise cash for Manorlands.

Barry Hopkinson took on the epic 1,515-mile bike ride in memory of his late wife, Carole, who was cared for at the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

He has raised over £10,700, with some donations still to come in.

Mr Hopkinson completed his mammoth journey in 20 days.

"It went exceptionally well," he said.

"There was a really hard day in France when there was a strong head wind – and I was carrying full camping gear too – but no major problems.

"Once myself and the back-up team got into Italy, the temperatures started to hot up and in Rome it was over 30C.

"Carole benefited from the wonderful care and expertise given at Manorlands and I wanted to do something in tribute to the hospice.

"She always had a smile on her face and felt so comfortable and secure there."

Mr Hopkinson, of Baildon, now has a brief break before his next challenge – a coast-to-coast bike ride.

He will be cycling from Whitehaven to Sunderland in August, again to raise funds for Manorlands.

"I'll be joined by about 30 family and friends and this will be a more leisurely ride!" he added.