Cycle rides are often chosen as a way to raise money for charity – and get some exercise into the bargain.
But one man has given the challenge a new spin with his choice of transport – a Boris Bike.
Rob Holden rented the bicycle in London, transported it to the base of a peak in the French Alps, rode it up to the summit and returned it to the capital, all within 24 hours.
The 47-year-old Londoner has now raised more than £11,000, which will be split equally between the ARCHIE Foundation and Macmillan Cancer Support.
That figure has also been doubled thanks to HRH Geology, which has matched the amount raised.
Mr Holden is an account manager for the firm, which has a base in Aberdeen and has been a longtime backer of ARCHIE, the charity that supports patients at the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital.
He said: “After jumping on the super-heavy Boris bike in 23-degree heat, I rode up Mont Ventoux with no stops in two hours and 55 minutes.
“It was sheer pain for much of it but I was ably supported by my two friends, Matt and Ian – drivers, cameramen and source of much motivation.”
Their support was vital as he made his gruelling journey to the top of the mountain.
“With essentially one gear the whole way up, it was a struggle just keeping the pedals turning and there was a fair bit of weaving at the top,” he said.
“But the weather was perfect, the mountain was awe-inspiring and I reached the summit at sunset, which was perfect.”
After the intrepid fundraiser reached the summit of the 6,273ft peak, the bike was flung back into the truck.
The trio then raced back through France in stormy conditions and made it to the Channel Tunnel check-in with two minutes to spare.
The bike was docked back in London just in time for the team to achieve their target within a day – and before they reached the 24-hour rental limit.
David Cunningham, chief executive of the ARCHIE Foundation, said: “Many congratulations to the team for their amazing achievement and huge thanks to Rob and HRH Geology for this wonderful donation and for their continued enthusiastic support.
“Between them, they have made a great difference for the sick children and their families who use Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital.
“I am sure many of them will also be inspired by what Rob has achieved.”
Boris Bikes are named after Boris Johnson, mayor of London when the scheme was introduced.