A young Royal Navy aircraft handler from Watford is preparing to cycle the length of Great Britain for charity next week.

Stephen Jennings, 20, will be covering 100 miles-a-day, for ten days, as he takes part in the gruelling ride from John o'Groats to Land's End.

Joined by 13 of his colleagues, Stephen is raising money for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, which provides support for seamen past and present, and their families.

The team, named Celtic Cadence, will cycle for a relentless eight hours a day, stopping overnight at various army and navy bases across the country.

Stephen, of Knutsford Avenue, said: "It is a bit worrying but it is exciting to think you would have cycled the length of the country."

Currently stationed in Plymouth on HMS Bulwark, Stephen has had to fit in his cycling training around his already strict regime.

"It has been hard work trying to squeeze in time to train at sea," he said. "There is a gym on the ship, and I have been down there more times than I can remember, but the thought of finishing the ride is motivating me."

The team has raised more than £400 so far in sponsorship, with an aim to gather £10,000 before the collection closes in a few weeks time.

Stephen added: "I'm looking forward to it. To challenge yourself is exciting - this will be new and something to achieve."

Celtic Cadence will set off for John O'Groats on Sunday, April 24, before the ride begins on Tuesday, April 26.

To sponsor the team, visit their fundraising page or, to find out more about the charity, visit the RNRMC website.