One inspiring hospital worker cycled 126 miles to raise thousands for a cancer charity.

Ian Denslow, 30, from Dorchester, took on the first leg of the Tour De France route to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK, a charity dedicated to improving the welfare of men affected by the disease.

The epic challenge saw Ian cycle the 126-mile stretch from Düsseldorf, Germany, to Liège, Belgium just one week before the pros, earlier this month. With his fundraising efforts, Ian managed to raise a huge £3069.52 for the charity.

Ian, who works at Dorset County Hospital, said he chose Prostate Cancer UK because he wants to raise awareness of the disease so that other men can recognise the symptoms and get treated as early as possible.

Speaking about the cycle, he said: “The ride went really well and the fundraising surpassed all expectations.

“The riding time was just over eight hours. It was hard work with a headwind the majority of the way and lots of red lights through the towns - unlike the professionals we weren't allowed to go through them. I felt fairly strong throughout the ride and the training miles paid off.

“There was such a sense of camaraderie. It was a proud moment to finish an actual stage of the Tour de France and would love to do it again next year if I can secure the fundraising in the coming months.”

Ian revealed that a mystery person was so impressed with his fundraising that they have offered to front the first £500 of his fundraising next year, when he is considering facing the challenge once again.

Next time, the first leg will take Ian along the south coast of France, and he has big plans for his fundraising journey.

He said: “I am proposing that a company or companies sponsor me riding next year for advertising on a jersey.

“A gentleman from Yeovil was sponsored £1000 to just wear a restaurant’s jersey!”

After building up his fitness for the epic challenge, Ian has been taking it easy since the ride. He said: “I've only been out on the bike twice since, once to the tea rooms. A nice gentle bike ride is actually quite enjoyable.”