Former Norwich City footballer Paul McVeigh and two childhood friends have cycled their way to raising thousands of pounds for a cancer charity.

Mr McVeigh, pictured, along with Conor Moss and Terry Lawlor, cycled about 450 miles from Belfast to London and so far their epic challenge has collected more than �4,000 for Bowel Cancer UK.

They began their adventure from their family homes in Belfast on Thursday, May 26 and rode into London just after 6.30pm on Monday, May 30.

Mr McVeigh said it was one of the most physically demanding challenges he had ever done, and at one point they cycled an impressive 96 miles in just one day.

The whole challenge was a tribute to Mr Moss' aunt Joanne McAreavey, who died of cancer in January last year aged 47, and it was also to show support for Mr Lawlor's father, who is currently undergoing treatment for bowel cancer.

When asked about the highlights of the trip, Mr McVeigh said: 'Just the whole experience and the sense of achievement that we have actually cycled all the way from Belfast to London.

'I also could not believe how beautiful all the countryside was, and obviously the camaraderie of doing the trip with two friends for our common goal of raising funds and awareness for Bowel Cancer UK was great.

'We have raised over �4,000 so far, which is brilliant.

'It is also great how many people have connected with us along the way on social media too. People have been watching our video updates and have been with us the whole way.'

Mr McVeigh said they all wanted to say a huge thank-you to everyone who had sponsored them, and that he was especially touched to receive sponsorship from people whom they had never met before.

Nearly 40,000 people a year are diagnosed with bowel cancer in the UK. Bowel Cancer UK aims to save lives by raising awareness of bowel cancer, campaigning for best treatment and care and providing support and advice.

To sponsor the team visit www.justgiving/belfasttolondon

For information on Bowel Cancer UK visit www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk

Are you raising funds for a good cause? Call reporter Emma Knights on 01603 772428 or email emma.knights@archant.co.uk