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A Teesside press photograper is recovering after taking part in a mammoth charity bike ride across the Sinai Desert, covering a total of 430km.

Doug Moody, (48), of the Middlesbrough Evening Gazette, was one of 22 fundraisers from across Britain who took part in the trip organised by learning disability charity Mencap.

It had originally been planned to take place in China but had to be re-routed due to the SARS outbreak.

And despite initial disappointment about the change of venue, the chief photographer enjoyed the experience and managed to cycle the whole course - despite an injury to his knee.

Doug said: "I amazed myself really. I did struggle a bit and thought I might have to take a break but with help and encouragement from others in the group I got through."

In Cairo, the group spent a day sightseeing, visiting the pyramids and giving Doug the opportunity to use the D100 camera which Nikon UK had loaned him for the trip.

And after staying in a hotel near the Red Sea, the next day they were fitted for their bikes in preparation for an afternoon's cycling, when Doug was injured.

Doug said: "I was given quite a large frame bike with special pedals that clipped on to your shoes. I was testing it out when I slowed down too quickly and fell sideways.

"My knee swelled up and I had to have it strapped up for the whole week, but it was okay."

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