THEY SAY age is nothing but a number and out to prove it is 81-year-old Brian Lewis who is attempting a 1,000-mile bike ride.

The Bicester local has set off on the intrepid journey from the country's most southerly point at Land's End to the most northern point at John o'Groats in Scotland.

He headed off on Saturday and is aiming to complete the challenge within 14 days.

Mr Lewis said: "Cycling provides me with lots of positives in my life it provides social interaction, keeps me fit in both body and mind which is why I am keen to encourage other older people to keep active in later life."

The famous 'Lejog' route will take Mr Lewis, who is with a team of cyclists, the traversal of the whole length of Great Britain between two extremities, in the southwest and northeast.

The shortest route, by road and including motorways, is reportedly 874 miles. The challenge is said to take most cyclists between 10 and 14 days to complete, and the record for running the route is nine days.

Mr Lewis is aiming to complete to mammoth task within the fortnight and as a result hopes to be the fastest man of his age group to ever complete the course.

By securing the title the cyclist, who only started riding about five years ago, hopes to prove just how much sport and exercise at any age can help maintain a positive physical and mental lifestyle.

Now a keen member of Bicester Millennium Cycle Club, Mr Lewis has been training regularly for the adventure around the country.

The cyclist set off with a number of his peers on Saturday, part of an organised tour through local cycling company Pedal Britain.

The tour is expected to cover about 72 miles per day and climbs 55,000ft through all types of rough terrain and countryside, including the steep terrain of the Lake District and peaks of Scotland.

The first stop after 40 miles included a tea break complete with egg sandwiches and cream teas at Linden Hey team rooms in Penelewey, Truro.

Pedal Britain founder Darren Ball said he is delighted to have Me Lewis on the current tour.

He added: "We welcome all ages and abilities on our tours.

" Brian is such a true inspiration and shows you are never too old to attempt such a difficult challenge."

To keep up to date on the challenge search Pedal Britain on Facebook.com or for more details on the route and challenge itself go to pedalbritain.co.uk

For local cycling sessions for which Mr Lewis is a member go to bmcc2000.com