The Revd Richard Littledale of Teddington Baptist Church initially hoped to raise £1000 for Princess Alice Hospice by taking part in the 100km Nightrider event earlier this month.
 

However, thanks to campaigns to sell advertising space on his cycle shirt, successful requests for equipment, online video messages and use of an Olympian to raise his profile - all chronicled through regular updates on his blog and Twitter feed - Richard reached £3,000.

The 100km challenge saw participants ride from Crystal Palace to Alexandra Palace and back again, taking in some of London's iconic sites in often deserted streets.

He said, 'The cycle was amazing, I am so happy to have been part of a wonderful event and to have taken the opportunity to do something for an important local charity. There are so many highlights from the event, the city was so beautiful. Seeing St Paul's Cathedral bathed in floodlight, as we sped round a corner was amazing.

'The inestimable value of encouragement, as marshals at the rest stops cheered everybody on their way and a touching moment on the last hill, when a very serious cyclist who could have sped off to glory, slowed down and coaxed the inexperienced one at his side to keep going made is a very special and humbling experience.'

Richard was inspired to take part following the care a member of his congregation received at the hospice last year.

To sponsor Richard visit www.justgiving.com/Richard-Littledale or text RLGO86 £5 to 70070.