Over the next few weeks Bernie will pass through Belgium, Germany, Denmark, Sweden and Norway before heading for Scotland and making his way back to Southend.

He is following the North Sea Cycle Route, the world's longest signposted coastal path.

Throughout the trip he hopes to raise money for Cancer Research, in memory of his mum and his partner's mum who both suffered brain tumours and died within 12 months of each other.

He also plans to write a book about his adventure, called Cycling back to Happiness, and has secured a deal with publisher Pen Press.

Bernie has worked at the Southend Echo for more than ten years in three separate stints, working as a news reporter, Southend United reporter and sports writer/sub.

He has also worked for Sky Sports and The Sun, and began his career on the Yellow Advertiser.