A CHARITY fundraiser is about to complete his latest cycling challenge. 

Gerard McCarten, of Whitehaven, has been cycling the combined height of Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain in the world from the sea bottom. 

During October Gerard reached a height of 10,087 metres and is on the verge of completing his challenge.

With 4 days remaining McCarten has a little over 100 metres to climb and is well set to achieve his target of 10,205 metres.

He has completed this challenge without leaving his own street, by cycling continuous routes of the small hill outside his home. 

However, Gerard will leave the final 30 metres of climbing until 05 November 2024 when the pupils of Jericho Primary School, Whitehaven return from half-term break.

They are set to give him a rousing welcome within the school grounds where the intrepid rider will complete the final metres.

Joining Gerard will be two longtime friends, Mike Cowley and Ged Brear, who have been supporting him on his month-long challenge.

The trio will ride the final 30 metres together to the expected rousing cheers of over 400 pupils who will be singing “The Grand Old Duke of York” to announce, ‘The Grande Arrivee’. 

Gerard has done this to raise awareness of Sorsby Fundus Dystrophy (SFD), a condition that affected his late wife, Margaret. 

Whitehaven and Workington MP Josh MacAlister has showed his support of Gerard's achievement through a letter. 

In the letter, Mr MacAlister wrote: "‘I wish you the best of luck with regards to your October cycling challenge and commend you for seeking to raise awareness around Sorsby Fundus Dystrophy (SFD).

"I’m pleased you have received the backing of the Macula Society, Jericho Primary School, Myers & Bowman as well as those closest around you.

"Many will find it inspirational that this is how you’ve chosen to honour your wife Margaret’s memory, and I’m in no doubt your local community will be cheering you on."