An insurance broker cycling from Manchester to Melbourne has received a special message from Sir Chris Hoy.

Andrew Crompton, who grew up in Over Hulton, has undertaken the gruelling eight month challenge to raise money for Carers Trust and the Bolton Lads and Girls Club.

His goal is £500,000 and he has so far reached just over £20,000.

Ane he has received support and motivation from sports legend, Sir Chris Hoy in a video posted to Twitter.

In the video, Chris said: “I just wanted to wish you the very best of luck in your epic ride from the UK to Australia.

"I guess it goes to show the lengths that some people will go to avoid using an airport at the moment, but listen I hope it goes well for you and I want to say a big hello to everybody at the Bolton Lads & Girls Club.

Bolton insurance broker to cycle from Manchester to Melbourne for charity

Bolton businessman has set off on his gruelling bike ride to Australia

“I wish you all the very best, I hope the winds on your back the whole way and yeah, best of luck, enjoy the whole experience.”

Bolton Lads & Girls club shared the video to their social media and said: “It's just over a week since Andrew Crompton set of on his epic bike ride from BLGC on a mission to cycle 8500 miles.

“Just before he set off, we got this message from Olympic legend Sir Chris Hoy.”