AN OPTICIAN from Witney tackled an impressive cycling feat to raise funds for a children's hospice charity.

Rob Nicol, from Specsavers in The Woolgate Centre took on the infamous cycling route up Mount Ventoux, part of the Tour De France, on July 9.

The contact lens optician, who said doing the challenge for a good cause helped him overcome his nerves, ascended about 5,300ft at an average gradient of around eight per cent.

He said: "Mount Ventoux is probably one of the hardest of all the Tour de France climbs so I was rather apprehensive to say the least."

"However, raising funds for charity helped spur me on through the gruelling climb – thanks to everyone who has supported me so far."

Mr Nicol cycled the treacherous 14 miles up the mountain to raise funds for Children’s Hospice South West

Children’s Hospice South West provides hospice care for children with life-limiting conditions and their whole family across the South West.

To make a donation pop into Specsavers at Unit 11, in The Woolgate Centre.

For more information call 01993 779977 or visit the store website at specsavers.co.uk/stores/witney

ROB Nicol from a Witney opticians pedalled for pounds when he took on the infamous cycling route up Mount Ventoux in France on 9 July.

The contact lens optician from Specsavers in The Woolgate Centre, cycled the 14 miles up the mountain to raise funds for Children’s Hospice South West, ascending around 5,300 feet, at an average gradient of around 8%. He has already raised more than £750 for the charity and hopes to make it at least £1,000.

‘Mount Ventoux is probably one of the hardest of all the Tour de France climbs so I was rather apprehensive to say the least,’ says Rob. ‘However, raising funds for charity helped spur me on through the gruelling climb – thanks to everyone who has supported me so far.’

Children’s Hospice South West provides hospice care for children with life-limiting conditions and their whole family across the South West.

To make a donation pop into Specsavers at Unit 11, The Woolgate Centre, Witney or for more information call 01993 779977 or visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/witney