A HAMPSHIRE man has completed a gruelling 520-mile individual cycle challenge to raise more than £3,000 for charity.

Cycling enthusiast Paul Perry, pictured above with fellow cyclists, completed the event on the idyllic island of Corsica in aid of Fareham children's charity The Rainbow Centre, which helps children with motor disabilities and cerebral palsy.

The 38-year-old is the commercial director for Totton based Linden Homes Southern and cycled three times a week at up to 40 miles per session to train for the event.

Paul said: "I started cycling when I was six years old and it quickly became an obsession. The Rainbow Centre is an extremely worthy cause and it was a great feeling to be able to use my hobby to benefit those in need. Corsica was unbelievable, with each leg of the challenge proving more tortuous than the last. The island has a spectacular coastline as well as some perilous mountain climbs, including one ascent of over 22 miles, so this challenge really tested my skills to the limit."

A spokesman for The Rainbow Centre said: "The individuals who took part in the Corsica Challenge will be benefiting a great many charities. Linden Homes has been an active supporter of the Rainbow Centre for some time and we are extremely grateful to them for their continuing support and to Paul for taking part in this tough challenge to raise funds for the centre."

To donate to The Rainbow Centre call Julie on 01329 289500 or visit www.rainbowcentre.org.