A CYCLIST who is lucky to be alive after he was knocked off his bike by a drunk driver two years ago, is now back on the road to raise funds for charity.

Paul O’Boyle, 52, suffered life-changing injuries following the accident at Wallisdown Road in July 2015, including a fractured skull.

Now after months of physio and psychotherapy, he is back in the saddle to raise funds for local charity Macmillan Caring Locally.

Last month, Paul took part in the Race to the King double marathon - a 53-mile run along the South Downs Way to the steps of Winchester Cathedral.

Now is training for the Bournemouth Triathlon in September and plans to run the London Marathon next year.

He hopes to raise £500 for Macmillan Caring Locally in Christchurch and is already halfway to his target.

Paul said: “I feel incredibly fortunate to be alive and really want to give something back to charity.

"I’ve always been sport focused and though it’s been a tough journey I am delighted to able to run and cycle once again.

"The marathon was great fun and I now aim to do a 100k race next year. Inspired by Neal and the team at Macmillan, I chose their charity because we all know someone, family or friend who has been affected by cancer.’’

Neal Williams, trust secretary of Macmillan Caring Locally added:

“Paul’s story to recovery is truly inspirational. To have survived such a terrible accident and now be trekking great distances for charity is amazing.

"I hope more sponsors will now come forward to help him reach his target and thank him for his exceptional contribution.’’

If you would like to sponsor Paul O’Boyle, please visit his Just Giving Page justgiving.com/fundraising/mr-paul-o-boyle.