A FEARLESS fundraiser has begun an epic 5,000 Poole to Poole cycle to raise funds Alzheimer's Society.

Paul Sanderson has sold his house and packed up his possessions to take on the challenge of cycling over 5,000 miles anti-clockwise around the UK.

Following the coast and taking in all the major islands, Paul set off from Poole on Saturday, and will be back there sometime in December.

He’s planning to camp along the way, with the occasional night in a B&B.

Paul decided to take on the mammoth challenge for Alzheimer’s Society because his mum Joyce has Alzheimer’s disease.

He said: "It’s been really hard to get care for mum, and so I wanted to do this challenge to raise awareness and money for the charity. My dad Peter, who is full time carer for my mum, thinks it’s a great idea. I’ve done minimal training, but I’m a keen mountain bike rider and the plan is to get fit en route!"

Paul chose to start and finish the ride in Poole because it’s one of his favourite spots in the country. When asked if he’d planned his route he said: "Keep the water on my right! I’m not really one for lots of plans, so I’m going to set off and keep as close to the water as I can – it makes it more exciting!"

Alzheimer's Society Challenge events co-ordinator Sam Geatrix said: "As a charity, we rely on the generosity of individuals like Paul to help us continue our vital work so that Alzheimer's Society can continue leading the fight against dementia.’

To donate please visit Paul’s Just Giving page: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paxosgonecyclingagain

Or follow him at www.facebook.com/paxopedalling/