A DAD-of-two has rode 284 miles on a scooter to support a cause close to his heart.

Alan Parr rode from his parents’ home in Leigh to Lee-On-Solent in Hampshire in five days in aid of the Stroke Association.

His mum and dad, Pat and Bill Parr, who recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, have both suffered strokes.

Alan’s boss Gary Tompsett also suffered from a stroke.

The 55-year-old wanted to embark on a marathon challenge befitting of the research work that the charity carries out, which has helped his parents and Gary with their recoveries.

More than £1,200 has been donated to Alan with him meeting plenty of wellwishers on the way who handed money to him on his travels.

Former Westleigh High School pupil Alan said: “Everyone were so generous on my journey and helped me in lots of different ways.

“It felt fantastic to complete the challenge and a relief that I didn’t have to carry my belongings around with me anymore.

“I have wanted to do this for a while but the fact that I could do it and raise so much money is great and I would like to thank all the people who have donated.”

Alan camped at sites near Stoke, Banbury, and Oxford as well as staying at his cousin’s house.

The ex Royal Navy officer also suffered four tyre punctures on the third and fourth day.

He eventually stopped at a cycle shop in Oxford to buy some tyres equipped to last for the rest of the trek.

Alan endured a night of camping in a pub garden on his last night where he got soaked after having to put his tent up in the rain.

He set off on Monday, May 21 and got there on Friday, May 25- one day earlier than he planned for.

He was surprised at the end of his journey by his friends and family including his partner Joanne, and was sprayed with a bottle of champagne on him to toast his achievement.

Alan sent us pictures of people he met and helped him on his journey as well as some of the places he passed which are included in this article.  

His crowdfunding page is still open. To donate to it visit bit.ly/2E3C9Yo.