WM Features

Success!

Phil - along with 23 neighbours from his home village of Claverdon in Warwickshire - set out on Tuesday 1st July 2008 on a four day bike ride to Paris.

They averaged 80 miles a day, crossing the English Channel via overnight ferry. All involved completed the journey unaided.

They're been trying to raise money for The MS Trust, the charity which works with and for the 85,000 people in the UK diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.

Phil in training

Multiple Sclerosis is a disease which affects the central nervous system and can result in physical and cognitive disabilities. The disease is more common in women than men.

Safely back at the BBC WM studios on Monday 7th July, Phil said:

"I'm really, really pleased. This was the biggest accomplishment of my life to ride to Paris. It's amazing when you think the journey takes only two hours by train; less time by air. Yet 20 guys did it in four days, each on two wheels!

"It's been great for all of us. What you had is a bunch of guys all from the same village an now we know each other even better. We'll always remember what we accomplished. We all managed to do it - with no support at all.

"I have to say that we were really well received in France - everyone was very supportive and welcoming. It was a good feeling.

Phil presenting BBC WM's Breakfast Show

"The weather was fantastic too. We had a downpour one day but that was it. I also feel really good; my back's a little soar but that's it. I've caught some colour".

But will Phil ever mount a bike again or is he sick of the sight of them?

"When we arrived in Paris I swore that was it (laughs)! But of course I will - I love cycling. My son is very keen on it too. I'd do the whole thing again. Just not for a while!"

Watch the video of Phil's journey to Paris by clicking the link at the top of this page.

Tune into BBC WM's Phil Upton @ Breakfast weekdays from 6.30am on 95.6FM.