Lone cyclist on course to reach John O'Groats target this week

Whereas most people have their essentials carried by car, or do the ride as a group, Mr Dobson has shunned the comfort of a support vehicle, opting to carry a lightweight tent, sleeping bag, camping mat, spare clothes and other essentials for about a week of overnight stays.

The self-employed electrician from Hemsworth, near Wakefield, is hoping to raise several thousand pounds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association in memory of his mother-in-law Brenda Fox, who died of the muscle-wasting condition in 2004.

Completing the journey in seven or eight days on his 500 special hybrid bike will mean pedalling for about 10 hours a day and covering around 120 miles, he said.

"The average time for people to do it is 10-12 days at 80 miles a day. I have been advised to stay off main roads and to book accommodation in advance but I will be finding my own way, with no pre-set route or accommodation."

Mr Dobson set off last week and had reached Scotland yesterday, on schedule to reach his target by the end of this week.