A STUDENT is putting his university lifestyle on hold for five weeks to embark upon a 2,500 mile cycling challenge from Scotland to Spain.

Oliver Arnott, 19, of Compton Chamberlayne and his friend Alastair Hope-Morley, 20, from Buckinghamshire, are setting off on June 17 to cycle from the northern tip of Scotland to the southern point of Spain.

They are aiming to raise £12,500, the equivalent of £5 per mile, which will go to Help for Heroes – the forces charity that helps servicemen wounded in current conflicts.

“From the comfort and security of the university bubble, we are acutely aware of the many young men of our age who are sacrificing everything for the security of our country,” they said.

“This has been further reinforced by knowing a number of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in both Iraq and Afghanistan.”

Sir Ranulph Fiennes, who has agreed to be the boys’ patron, said: “This is a demanding challenge to raise money for a very worthy cause.

“It is heartening to witness two young men voluntarily committing their time and energy to support our troops. I commend their initiative and wish them the very best of luck.”

To sponsor them visit www.justgiving.com/olandalbikeride, or sent a cheque payable to ‘Ol and Al’s Bike Ride’ to Oliver Arnott, Naishes Farm House, Compton Chamberlayne, Wiltshire SP3 5DL