A DETERMINED cyclist needs your help to tandem ride across the country – in world record time.

Endurance cyclist Dominic Irvine, from South Close, Alresford, is looking for the perfect partner to break the men’s tandem cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

The 45-year-old attempted the 842-mile trip last year with friend Dr Ian Rodd, a paediatrician at Royal Hampshire County Hospital, and although they completed the challenge, they missed out on the record due to bad weather.

But he remains convinced that the record, set in 1966 at two days, two hours, 14 minutes and 25 seconds, is breakable and is on the lookout for someone in Hampshire to help him get there.

His training regime is not for the faint-hearted.

He is on the bike by 5.30am and fits in around 16 to 20 hours a week on the saddle – all while running a business.

He said: “It’s ordinary people trying to do something extraordinary and at the same time making a positive contribution to society.

“We need to work together on the bike. You’ll need to have a background in endurance and have a sense of humour, as you’ll need to spend a lot of time training with each other.”

Mr Irvine praised his wife Helene, 54, and daughter Chloe, 14, for their support.

He added: “I have an amazing wife and daughter who are beyond belief in the encouragement they give me.”

The attempt should take place in spring 2014, although it depends on the partner’s level of experience. They will also raise money for charity.

If you think you have what it takes, contact Dominic via dom.irvine@ gmail.com.

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