A professional model from Norwich has set off on a three-year cycle around the world, to raise awareness and funding for the children of Cambodia.

Eastern Daily Press: James Davenport, 31, from Old Catton as he set off for his three-year world cycle challenge. Photo: Geraldine ScottJames Davenport, 31, from Old Catton as he set off for his three-year world cycle challenge. Photo: Geraldine Scott (Image: Geraldine Scott)

James Davenport, from Old Catton, is taking on the adventure after two accidents which made him rethink his priorities.

His rugby career ended prematurely in 2013 when he had to have his spleen removed following a bad tackle.

And a high speed cycling accident down the side of a volcano in Ecuador a year later left him with a metal plate in his wrist.

And setting off from the Forum this morning, surrounded by family and friends, the 31-year-old pointed to those events as being part of what inspired him in his latest challenge.

'It's a massive cause I believe in,' he said. 'And you're only here once, you've got to do what you want to do.'

MORE: Professional model from Norwich to take on challenge of a lifetime to support children in CambodiaMr Davenport is hoping to raise £150,000 by the end of the trip to launch a charity in Cambodia.

Called 'A Sporting Chance for All', it aims to lift children out of poverty through sport in the rural areas of the country.

He said he had the idea while working there in 2012 and hearing about the struggles faced by young people.

'Now I'm here ready to go I've realised the significance of what I'm doing and I feel like a bit of a fool,' he joked.

'It's awesome to see so many people here - I wasn't expecting this. I think they're just here to make sure I actually go.'

Mr Davenport raised £11,000 to cover his expenses on the trip, and he will be carrying around 30kg of equipment along the way.

Visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/abeardabikeandabucketlist