A CYCLIST who rode around the world in 80 days, breaking a world record in the process, will speak in Abingdon.

Last July, long-distance rider Mark Beaumont pedalled out of Paris and just 78 days and 14 hours later he was back at the Arc de Triomphe having cycled 18,000 miles around the world.

It was a huge athletic challenge that saw him cycling for 16 hours and covering nearly 250 miles every day; all while his support team worked hard to keep him healthy, negotiate borders and arrange logistics.

The record-breaking ride, which beat the previous fastest cycle by 44 days, made headlines around the world but the thrill-seeker has not confined his athletic adventures to cycling.

He has also rowed from Resolute Bay to the magnetic north pole, capsized during a crossing of the Atlantic and followed the Queen’s Baton Relay around the Commonwealth to hear the varied stories of athletes from a diverse range of backgrounds.

The lecture starts at 7.30pm in Abingdon School's Amey Theatre. It will be followed by a question and answer session.

Tickets are £14.50 via the school website.