A father managed to complete an “incredible” charity cycle ride in Madagascar while suffering from food poisoning.

Melvin Jacobs, who owns estate agents in Manor Park Crescent, Edgware, rode through blistering temperatures to raise money for Jewish charity Norwood.

The 48-year-old said the 300-mile ride became exceptionally tough when he fell ill halfway through the trip.

He said: “I just got on with it. I thought, I’m not going to go all that distance and not carry on, it seemed stupid.

“I kept feeling like I was going to pass out so kept stopping to drink water and recharge my batteries. At one point I was churning my way up a hill in the lowest gear possible, but I made it.

“Some of the roads were very steep – and for someone who isn’t a cyclist, it was tough. The mountain roads were in a state of disrepair.

“But despite all the challenges we faced it was incredible, such a brilliant experience.”

Around 40 people took part in the trip to support the Stanmore-based charity, which supports people with learning disabilities.

They were joined by people who benefit from the charity - including a woman named Jackie who has Down's syndrome.

He managed to raise £7,650 for the charity and is now considering taking part in next year’s ride, which could be in Chile or Cuba.

Mr Jacobs, who celebrated his birthday on the trip, added: “Seeing people like Jackie on the trip made it so much more worthwhile.

“I’m so pleased I did it. It is a beautiful country with some incredible landscape.”