Builders merchant, Jewson has joined forces with Polypipe and McCann to sponsor veteran cyclist Mick Ives as he gears up to ride 3,400km to raise money for charity.

Mr Ives will undertake the 3,400km Giro d’Italia, which follows the exact route of the 2017 Tour of Italy in a bid to raise vital funds for Barnardo’s, Rainbow Children’s Hospice, Padraic Sweeney Kidney Research and Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice. The race takes place over 21 days in May, with 2017 marking the 100th edition of the cycling event.

Mr Ives is no stranger to a challenge and has won an array of accolades to date, including eight World Masters Cycling Championships, 17 World Championship medals, 79 British Cycling Championships and is the only male to represent his country at road, cross, mountain and track events. He has also managed the Great Britain team at the World Championships for both cyclo-cross and mountain biking, as well as acting professional team manager for several UK-based teams.

In 2005 and at the age of 65, Mr Ives became the first and only rider to ride the exact route of the Tour de France in one day less than the race. In doing so, he raised more than £20,000 for Cancer Research.

Now, approaching the age of 78, Mr Ives will attempt what he considers to be his greatest challenge yet, with  Jewson, Polypipe and McCann have all pledging to support him and sponsor the ride, with more sponsors set to get behind the campaign.

Mr Ives’ journey will be followed on social media. For more information,  contact: mickivesbikeking@gmail.com or scot.whitlock@yahoo.co.uk.