St Martins man takes on charity bike ride

Karl Evans cycled from capital to capital in order to raise money for the charity, who has supported his 11 year-old daughter Poppy-Scarlet, who has a rare form of epilepsy.

He managed to raise over £7,000 for the charity, which Karl said he is thrilled with.

Across four days he cycled approximately 90 miles each day, before reaching the canals of Amsterdam along with fellow riders.

"I've fundraised for Hope House in the past," said 39-year-old Karl.

"I've completed a 56-mile bike ride for the charity, but when they mentioned doing this one I just thought 'yeah, why not!'

"A month before the event I pulled my hamstring so I didn't get much training in, so I was a little worried."

The cycle began in London, before moving to Dover to catch the ferry, then cycling through France and Belgium before finally reaching Amsterdam.

"It was a nightmare getting out of London, but once we were out of the ferry at Calais they were very flat roads," Karl continued.

"You think the idea of flat roads is great, but actually it's really monotonous.

"There were some beautiful views however. On one of the days we were cycling past poppy fields and it really made me think about my daughter. I just had to block out why I was doing the cycle otherwise I'd have been emotional.

"It was such a relief to get to Amsterdam and I was absolutely over the moon with my achievement.

"It was a long journey home by trains, cars, taxis –but it was much better than biking back!"

Lynsey Kilvert from Hope House said: "Everyone at Hope House is so proud of Karl.

"We know how difficult the challenge was for him having not been able to fit in lots of training and looking after his family. His determination to help Hope House be there for all children and families that need us, was incredible. Karl’s total has recently topped £7000 and we cannot thank him, his family and friends and everyone who has supported him enough for their support.”