Englishman finishes round-the-world record attempt

24 year-old Englishman Phil White is hoping to claim his place in the Guinness Book of Records after finishing an epic 10 month round-the-world cycle ride. Phil, a 2003 Bath University School of Management graduate, has ridden more than 18,000 miles (29,870 km) in a bid to be the first person to cycle the world according to Guinness World Record rules. Although others have ridden around the world, no-one has managed to meet Guinness rules which say that the rider must cycle at least 18,000 miles (28,970 km) during a total journey of 24,900 miles (40,075 km).

Phil's adventure has taken him through deserts, jungles and mountain peaks across 26 countries including Iran, Australia, China and America. Each location has provided its own perils, both mental and physical. Extreme heat, frequent downpours, strong winds, unsanitary conditions, mountains, enormous distances between settlements, and even bandits have tested Phil to the limit of his endurance. He also raised £67,000 for Oxfam.

Among the well-wishers cheering Phil across the finish line was Sir Cliff Richard, a family friend, who said of Phil's adventure, "I think it's fantastic that a young person has given up that much of their life, 10 months, to cycle around the planet. To him it will mean a great deal; you cannot go through that arduous task without learning something. This journey will help him both physically and mentally."