A cyclist has completed a solo ride of almost 3,000 miles, from Norfolk to Istanbul.

Ben Gore's journey took 74 days and saw him pass through 16 countries.

The 2,829 mile route, equivalent to climbing Mount Everest five times, tested his endurance with varied terrains and altitudes.

His arrival in Istanbul was held up by a last-minute injury.

Just three days before he reached his destination to awoke at 1am with severe knee pain.Ben's adventure was almost cut short due to a sudden knee injury Ben's adventure was almost cut short due to a sudden knee injury (Image: Submitted)

"I had my alarm set for 4 am to start my final 3-day stretch to Istanbul," he said.

He went to hospital to have the injury checked and was told to rest his knee.

He waited two days before continuing, finally reaching Hagia Sophia, in the Turkish city, on June 25.

His epic ride raised more than £5,000 for TimeNorfolk, a charity providing free support for individuals affected by pregnancy and baby loss.

Ben's motivation for this incredible feat was personal Ben's motivation for this incredible feat was personal (Image: Submitted)

Mr Gore's connection to the charity is personal.

"My family was shaken by a baby loss recently, and TimeNorfolk provided 16 free counseling sessions," he said.

His journey not only raised much-needed funds, it also boosted awareness for TimeNorfolk's services.

Ruth Kettle, the charity's fundraising co-ordinator, said: "Following Ben's journey has been truly inspiring.

TimeNorfolk is a pregnancy loss charity TimeNorfolk is a pregnancy loss charity (Image: Submitted)

"Ben has raised awareness of TimeNorfolk and the support we offer across 16 countries, as well as funds that will enable us to provide over 80 counselling sessions completely free of charge."

Jeannie Melton-Royal, wellbeing lead at Ben’s sponsor, JMR Healthcare, said: "Ben is a born adventurer and is an asset to our team of incredible carers working to support young people in crisis at JMR Healthcare."

James Melton-Royal, managing director of JMR Healthcare, said: "I think the mental and physical strength shown by Ben to undertake this challenge is a testament to his personal character, he's a fantastic member of our team and we as an organisation were so proud to support him on this journey."