Being faced with a 4am start and a 200-mile round cycling trip ahead would be enough to put most people off.

But there was nothing stopping Tony Bolton enduring the challenge he set himself.

The 54-year-old from Caldbeck took on the Lakes and Dales Loop - which takes in the Lake District, Eden valley and Yorkshire Dales - in less than a day to raise money for the Alzheimer's Society.

After losing his dad, Terry, 87, to the disease in May following a 10-year battle, Tony was determined to raise whatever he could to help future generations faced with the debilitating illness.

While he likes cycling and is no stranger to a challenge, this was his biggest test to date.

But Tony hoped the size of what he was attempting would encourage more donations.

Joined by his friends and son along parts of the route, Tony said he enjoyed the journey.

"It was fantastic," said Tony. "Stunning scenery and fantastic locations.

"I might not do it again in a day but I will definitely go back and explore those roads.

"I was taken back as to how tough some of the hills were at the bottom of the Lake District.

"It was just fantastic."

Tony cycled a total of 200.5 miles in 15 hours during the challenge, which also saw him take on a staggering ascent of 5,172 metres - the equivalent of almost two-thirds of the way up Mount Everest.

Arriving back at The Old Crown at Hesket Newmarket to a warm welcome, a pint of real ale and a piece of pie, Tony was ready for a well deserved rest.

"I slumped in a corner, drank a couple of pints and went home," he said.

David Oatway, of Caldbeck, was by his side during the first third of the route before a period on his own.

Tony said: "It's a true friend that comes at four in the morning for an 80 mile bike ride."

Graham Slater, of Carlisle, then joined him for 80 miles towards the end and his 17-year-old son Harry completed the final 20 miles.

Tony has raised at least £2,000, with more donations still coming in. He wanted to thank his wife and son for their support, as well as all those who sponsored him.

Previous challenges include running the Pennine Way in memory of his mum to raise money for the Preston hospice that cared for her during her battle with cancer.

He also walked a Coast to Coast route with a friend who suffered three types of cancer and was receiving treatment for leukemia, carrying him part of the way.

To sponsor Tony, visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ANTONY-BOLTON1.