A CHARITY fundraiser who set himself a year-long challenge to complete 4,000 miles on foot, swimming and by bike has passed the half-way point.

Phil Wiggins, of Beech Grove, Acomb, passed the six-month mark in April, and is at the 2,100-mile mark.

Phil, who has been supported on his unique Wiggo 4,000 Challenge by Noel Edmunds with a visit to the Deal Or No Deal set earlier this year, said his challenge had led him to take in some stunning scenery, as well as improve his health.

He said: "I’ve watched the sunrise as I’ve run up Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh, through St Mark’s square in Venice and around the walls of Windsor Castle. My runs have taken me along the banks of Lake Garda, through the streets of Milan and the beautiful but isolated beaches of Aberdeenshire. I’ve competed in 5km swim events and 100-mile timed bike events - further than I’ve ever cycled before.

"My only injury so far was during a 35-mile mountain bike race when I fell heavily on some rocks and cracked my ribs - although we thought they were only bruised so I still did an event the following day and a 10-mile obstacle course in Scotland the following week."

Phil who works at Electronics Direct, at Sheriff Hutton, started the Wiggo 4,000 in October to celebrate his 40th birthday, and raise money for the Alzheimer's Society, and is burning about 4,000 calories, and said he was now "fitter than I've ever been, and the weight is falling off".

He said: "The only downside is that all my work shirts are now too big and baggy and I need new ones.

"My trainers are looking a bit worn, whereas my bike has not faired so well: I’ve worn out and had to replace both wheels, tyres, gears, chain, brake pads and brake cable - almost a new bike."

In the coming weeks, Phil will take part in runs in Poland, the Czech Republic, Northern Cyprus and Ireland, with a half marathon, a 20-mile obstacle course and a 250-mile bike ride in the UK, and a special event in June, where he will cycle around the Eye of York for 100 miles.

To donate to Phil's cause, go to justgiving.com/thewiggo4000