AFTER travelling 800 miles in training without a hiccup, the last thing cyclist Kevin Cross expected during his 60-mile charity ride was a puncture.

But sure enough, 17 miles into the course, he found himself on his hands and knees repairing the tyre.

Kevin (46), who works as governance manager for Bury mental health services, and his daughter Sarah (17), were taking part in the gruelling event at the weekend in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care, for which his wife Liz is a nurse.

The father and daughter team started the course on Sunday morning (Sept 5) in Wythenshawe and crossed the finishing line five and a half hours later, including a stop for lunch and the unexpected pit stop!

Kevin, of Walker Avenue, Whitefield, said: "Sarah and I were doing well until about 17 miles when I got a puncture. I have had this bike since Christmas, covered about 800 miles, and haven't had a puncture until Sunday."

The delay set them back around 30 minutes and after a couple of moments a race marshall stopped and took over the repair.

Tired but happy, the pair completed the course and are now collecting sponsorship money, which they hope will reach £400.

Kevin said: "We were both really, really tired afterwards but there are no lasting effects, except for my aching knees and I am really proud of Sarah. We have said we would do it again next year as it is a great way of raising money for charities.