STANMORE pensioner Derek Heasman has reached the half-way mark of his epic 1,000 cycle ride to raise money for the Prince's Trust.

Derek, 74, a former headmaster of Morley Crescent, is cycling between all the Royal palaces in England and Scotland and left St James's Palace in London on August 21.

This week he as crossing the Yorkshire moors and heading north into Scotland as he pedals towards the finish line at Holyrood House in Edinburgh.

Despite experiencing a range of weather , from glorious sunshine to torrential downpours, Derek said he was still in good spirits and confident of completing his challenge.

He said: "This really has been the most challenging trip I have ever undertaken.

"While the cycling has proved physically tough, the mental challenge of getting up each morning to complete the next stage, whatever the weather, has proved to be as much of a challenge.

"What has driven me is the knowledge that every penny raised by my efforts will help a young person in a constructive way and will provide them with positive start as they set out on their own journey towards building a better life."

Derek is no stranger to cycling challenges.

In April 2004 he cycled over 160 miles from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, and in May 2005 he biked 260 miles from Newcastle to Edinburgh.

He has taken on his latest challenge despite having major cancer surgery in November 2004, and again in February this year, which resulted in two malignant tumours being removed with parts of his kidneys.

So far, Derek has raised more than £46,000.

To keep track of his journey, or to make a donation, see www.justgiving.com/derekheasman.