AN intrepid cyclist has set off to climb the highest and wettest mountains in Britain and Ireland to raise money for charity.

Charles Whitworth, of Knightwick, left for his mammoth tour on Wednesday, destined for the 2,038ft summit of High Willhays on Dartmoor.

The 36-year-old will climb nine other peaks, including Snowdon, Ben Nevis and Macgillycuddy's Reeks in Ireland, during his 2,500 mile journey for WaterAid. He expects to take six weeks to complete the route.

"I've always wanted to visit these places and I thought because they were so wet why not do it for a water-based charity," he said. "The challenge really is the distance and I suppose the time I'll have to spend away from my family. I'm not an accomplished cyclist."

Mr Whitworth hopes to raise £25,000 through sponsorship and corporate backing. The money will go to WaterAid, to provide clean water for people in India. Anyone wanting to sponsor the challenge should visit www. wheelsforwater.org.uk.