An Oxford man is getting on his bike to cycle the length of the country to raise money for charity.

Research scientist Richard Anderson, 39, of Weyland Road, Headington, has decided to make the journey from John O'Groats to Land's End to raise money for the new Oxford Children's Hospital.

Mr Anderson said he was inspired to make the journey after a camping holiday with his family and friends.

He said: "I had been wanting to raise money for charity for some time.

"All of the people there had children aged between two and five and one of my friends worked at the John Radcliffe Hospital and suggested that I raise money for the Children's Hospital.

"I'll be able to see the benefits of the money I raise."

Mr Anderson, who has been cycling 150 miles a week in training, set off for John O'Groats by train last week and will spend the next month cycling down to Land's End.

He said: "I'm doing a more meandering journey than most, so in total I'll be doing about 1,200 miles. I hope to raise a pound a mile.

"I think if it's raining it'll be pretty grim and I'm worried about hills. If it's raining, hilly and windy, it'll be pretty tough."

Alison Barnes, communications manager at the Children's Hospital, said: "It's great that he's doing this. Anything that can be done to raise money for the hospital or to help raise its profile is always welcome."

The Oxford Children's Hospital Campaign, supported by the Oxford Mail, was launched in 2002, with the aim of raising £15m.

Since then, £13.3m has been collected through a series of fundraising events and donations.

Ms Barnes said: "People have been absolutely fantastic. We've had people rowing the wrong way up the Thames River, running marathons and even shaving their heads.

"And now we have Richard cycling the length of the country. We would like to thank everyone for thinking of us."

To sponsor Mr Anderson's journey, you can go to www.justgiving.com/rjanderson