Eighty-eight-year-old Chelsea Pensioner who served in Northamptonshire Regiment takes on 1,000-mile charity cycling challenge

Roy, a Chelsea Pensioner and former soldier, is cycling the equivalent distance from John O’ Groats to Land’s End on a static bike in support of the Royal Hospital Chelsea and the War Horse Memorial.

The challenge, known as Roy’s Scarlet Wheels Challenge, began earlier this year and is expected to be completed in October.

Roy served with the Northamptonshire Regiment before later joining the Royal Pioneer Corps. He spent a total of 24 years in the British Army before retiring to care for his wife.

Since moving to the Royal Hospital Chelsea in 2018, he has taken on a series of fundraising challenges, including a wing walk and two parachute jumps while wearing the famous scarlet Chelsea Pensioner uniform.

Speaking about his latest fundraising effort, Roy said: “I love a challenge, and taking on the 1,000 miles between John O’ Groats and Land’s End is my biggest fundraising feat yet.

“Both causes are very dear to my heart. I have lived at the Royal Hospital Chelsea for eight years and have seen the difference it makes in ensuring those who serve are always supported.

“War animals have always been important to me too, and the War Horse Memorial is a great cause.”

The challenge started at the Salon Privé Car Festival in April, where Roy completed 140 miles. He will continue adding to his total at a series of public events throughout the summer before completing the final miles during the Chelsea History Festival in October.

David Richmond, chief executive officer of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, said everyone at the organisation was supporting Roy's efforts.

He said: “We are all getting behind Roy as he undertakes his brilliant challenge to raise funds for the important work that goes on here at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.”

People wishing to support Roy’s challenge can donate through the Royal Hospital Chelsea fundraising page.