Sussex adventurer takes on highest bike ride to break new world record
ITV News Meridian's Charlotte Wilkins reports
An adventurer from Sussex has reached the summit of one of the highest mountains in the world, with a bike on his back.
Former Royal Marine Commando Neil Laughton, 60, from Henfield in West Sussex, has set the world record for the highest bike ride ever.
He scaled the 7,246-metre high summit of Putha Huinchuli in Nepal.
Neil said: "I enjoy a challenge, I enjoy cycling, I enjoy mountaineering. Put all three together and I discovered the world record for the highest bicycle ride set in 2009 was 7,211 metres.
"I thought it could be beaten and by a British team."
Accompanied by his friend and climbing guide, local Sirdar Nima Kanchha Sherpa, the pair carried their bikes all the way to the top of one of the highest peaks in the world.
He said: "Only three out of 14 of us made it to the summit. The oxygen is really very thin at that level.
"Without supplementary oxygen. Determination just eventually gets you to the summit."
The pair rode around 20 metres at the highest point, before turning around and going back down again.
Neil is no stranger to expeditions, he's even scaled Everest with Bear Grylls, but he describes this one as his most challenging yet.
Once verified Neil can add this world record to an ever-growing list.
He's held the highest black tie dinner party and ridden a penny farthing with no hands.
This mission has raised thousands of pounds for a school in the Himalayas.
The funds will go towards buying furniture, insulating the walls and installing Wi-Fi along with other supplies.
Self-described 'adventureholic' Neil is already looking forward to his next missions, motorcycling in Oman and white water rafting in Ethiopia.
Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know...