A keen cyclist has thanked his supporters after raising £125,000 for charity by cycling 500km across Vietnam.

Weston Mercury: Phillip Howell with Catalin Ionita manager of the Mediterranevm restaurant which part sponsored Philip's charity cycle ride. Picture: MARK ATHERTONPhillip Howell with Catalin Ionita manager of the Mediterranevm restaurant which part sponsored Philip's charity cycle ride. Picture: MARK ATHERTON (Image: Archant)

Phil Howell, from Wick St Lawrence, was one of 25 cyclists who pedalled 500km across the country to raise money for the Mines Advisory Group (MAG).

The cyclists raised £125,000 for the charity and were able to see it in action during their trip when they visited a live landmine-clearance site.

Phil said: "The ride was tough in many places, as there were some very busy cities to negotiate, heavy traffic, as well as the longer rural geography.

"As well as the satisfaction of raising a collective £125k for MAG that will help so many people, I bring home some great memories of friends made, places visited and emotional experiences that will live with me forever."

Weston Mercury: Phillip Howell with Catalin Ionita manager of the Mediterranevm restaurant which part sponsored Philip's charity cycle ride. Picture: MARK ATHERTONPhillip Howell with Catalin Ionita manager of the Mediterranevm restaurant which part sponsored Philip's charity cycle ride. Picture: MARK ATHERTON (Image: Archant)

Phil thanked his family and friends for their support, along with Mediterranevm restaurant for its substantial donation.

MAG finds and destroys landmines, cluster munitions and unexploded bombs in places affected by conflict.

Weston Mercury: Phillip Howell with Macarena Yglesias at the Mediterranevm restaurant which part sponsored his charity cycle ride. Picture: MARK ATHERTONPhillip Howell with Macarena Yglesias at the Mediterranevm restaurant which part sponsored his charity cycle ride. Picture: MARK ATHERTON (Image: Archant)