Cyclist Rhys Lewis is riding from Land's End to John O'Groats - but he will be taking the scenic route for the duration.

Usually the distance between Great Britain's two furthermost points is about 900 miles and takes two weeks to cycle.

Rhys, 52, a software designer, is taking numerous detours in Scotland which will add another 700 miles and an extra two weeks to his journey.

"My employer offered me a month-long sabbatical.

"Others went on a month-long beach holiday.

"I wanted to do something useful and crazy with the time," said Rhys, who lives in South Wonston, Winchester.

During his journey, he will be raising money for the Royal National Institute for the Blind and for the Southampton-based Wessex Heartbeat appeal.

He will also be writing a daily blog.