A COPPER has completed a 987 mile bike ride in 10 days despite enduring snow, hailstones and a trip to hospital.

Bromley police Sergeant Rob Richards raised more than £1,600 during the challenge from John O’ Groats to Lands End.

The 37-year-old from Biggin Hill raised the cash for the charity Help the Heroes, which supports wounded service men and women.

He started the challenge in the rain and the weather soon turned to hailstones and snow.

Half way through a caravan knocked Sgt Richards off his bike and he was taken to hospital with injuries to his lower back and ankle.

Sgt Richards said: “I received fantastic support from total strangers throughout the bike ride.

“The challenges faced by our wounded service personnel can be huge and the support they receive from the charity is invaluable.”