A retired Huntingdon vicar is setting out on a 900-mile cycle from Lands End to John O Groats to celebrate his 80th birthday and 50th anniversary of his ordination in September.

Clifford Owen started long-distance cycling bike rides when he was 14 and has never gotten over the thrill of pedal power, wanting to complete one last long-distance cycle before he gets too old.

He always tries to ride in support of a good cause, and this time will ride for his home church, All Saints Hartford, the 'church by the river'.

The Hunts Post: Clifford has ridden the journey three times before: in 1995, 1998, and 2010, but decided on one last try before he got too old.Clifford has ridden the journey three times before: in 1995, 1998, and 2010, but decided on one last try before he got too old. (Image: Clifford Owen)

He will be accompanied by his two daughters, Kathryn and Isobel, with whom he has already made several long-distance journeys, such as the length of Ireland and from Santander, Spain, to St. Malo in Brittany.

READ MORE: 'Vicar stories tend to be amusing or bizarre' says retired clergyman Clifford

Clifford said the thing he enjoyed most on the 'End to End' was the continuously attractive and interesting scenery.

He added: "I believe we still live on one of the most beautiful islands on the planet". 

The Hunts Post: Clifford's daughter has previously ridden 1,900 miles from Boston to Miami.Clifford's daughter has previously ridden 1,900 miles from Boston to Miami. (Image: Clifford Owen)

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Clifford will keep everyone updated via his Thought for the Day slot on HCR104fm and sets off on the whopping journey on August 20.

If you wish to make a donation in support of Clifford and All Saints Church Hartford, visit https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/14533#!/DonationDetails.