A HOME improvement company director from Banbury tackled a 100-mile course between London and Surrey to raise money for vision-impaired ex-servicemen and women.

Nick Jackson, 51, took part in the Prudential RideLondon - Surrey 100 on July 31 for Blind Veterans UK, which help veterans carry on their daily lives after suffering from sight loss.

Along with wife Emma and friend Cliff Burnett, 46, the group completed the course in seven hours and 15 minutes, raising nearly £1,300 in the process.

Mr Jackson said: "I was a little nervous especially seeing the huge volume of cyclists about to set off but I also looking forward to the journey ahead together with Cliff and my wife Emma who joined our team.

"The main thing that stood out was the support along the way, the spectators really gave you a lift when your legs were starting to feel a little tired.

"It was also fantastic to see the amount of people riding for their chosen charities."

The group decided to take part because Mr Burnett, from Northamptonshire, had served in the army for 22 years from 1987 to 2009, serving in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps.

Mr Jackson added: "Riding down the Mall was the best feeling with the crowds cheering you home. It was our little moment of glory as we crossed the finish line."