A FATHER has cycled more than 1,000 miles to raise money for research into the disease which almost claimed the life of his son.

Philip Punchard, of Higham, pedalled his way from John O'Groats to Land's End in 14 punishing days to raise money for the charity Microscope, which researches into prevention, detection and treatment of meningitis.

His son Joel, four, beat meningitis when aged 22 months, but for the first 48 hours after he contracted the disease his life was in the balance. But Joel pulled through and it was for parents not as lucky as Philip and his partner, Tracy Boothman, that he completed the ride.

"It was tough but I made it. Some days I was raring to go and others it was a real struggle," he said. "The hardest day was when we went over Bodmin and Dartmoor, where we climbed 7,500 ft in seven and a half hours. It was a good feeling when I finally got off the bike for the last time."

Proud Tracy and Joel met Philip half-way when he rode through Tockholes and they are delighted to have him back and think the ride has raised between £1,500 and £2,000.

Philip, 34, has had time off to relax after his exertions, from his job as an engineer at Graham and Brown's in Blackburn. He took the family to see Blackburn Rovers take on CSKA Sofia in the UEFA Cup last night.

Anyone who wants to pledge money to Philip can contact Tracy on 01282 774095.