Diss Cycling Club's Richard Dunnett was one of nine riders who set out from Greenwich last week on the World Cycle Racing Grand Tour - a race around the globe.

The competitors are all riding unsupported. Each is tracked by satellite and must cycle a minimum of 18,000 miles, all in one direction. They must pass two points exactly opposite each other on either side of the globe. Sea crossings must be on public transport and the time taken by these journeys will be deducted from their total race time. Within these limits competitors choose their own route.

Dunnett, a 24 year-old electrician, is going west-bound and his nominated pair of 'antipodal points' are in Spain and New Zealand.

He is riding a steel-framed bicycle, similar to a cyclo-cross machine, but fitted with a 14 speed hub gear.

Mr Dunnett, of Occold, near Eye, aims to pedal 120 miles a day during his 160-day journey.

He is raising money for children's charity Make-A-Wish. To sponsor him, visit http://www.onebigpedal.co.uk