AN avid Reading FC supporter and season ticket holder has set himself the challenge of cycling the total distance of the Tour De France to raise money for the club’s charity.

John Lawrence, 38, from Whitley has decided to cycle the total distance of the Tour De France (more than 2,000 miles) to raise money for Reading FC Community Trust.

The trust offers “a safe environment to care for, develop and educate the disadvantaged or at risk young people within the Reading and surrounding areas” according to the club’s website.

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So far, Mr Lawrence has cycled around 1325 miles and hopes to complete the challenge within five weeks’ time.

Mr Lawrence describes himself as an “avid Reading supporter”.

He said: “I have enjoyed attending matches and I feel that my club best embodies the true meaning of community spirit.”

He explained why he wanted to take part in this challenge after having a “flash of inspiration”.

He said: “At every home game I have attended, I have often heard the familiar call of “Golden Gamble” a very popular half time raffle.

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“Due to the coronavirus it suddenly dawned on me that the charity will have lost and continue to lose a lot of funds, from not being able to hold the raffle.”

He continued: “I decided that I would turn my attention to raising money for this worthwhile charity."

Mr Lawrence is hoping to raise £500 for the charity and has so far raised, at the time of writing, £180.

To donate to the cause, click here.