A TITLEY father and son duo went from home to Rome in an epic charity cycle challenge.

Shaun, 47, and Calum Haydon, 16, cycled through seven countries, battling all weather and terrain to complete 1,582 miles in 16.5 days.

They were raising funds for the Macmillan Cancer Support, Cancer Research UK, and St Michael’s Hospice.

Averaging around 100 miles a day, their journey took them through rain and a strong headwind in a miserable North East Belgium to beautiful stretches along the Rhine valley, both up and down the Alps, and through the Umbrian hills.

Mum and wife, Beccy Haydon, said: "For Shaun the challenge was more of a physical one, having recently has surgery on his knees while for Calum it was much more of a mental challenge."

After arriving in Rome, Calum – who hopes to complete his A levels at Lady Hawkins School from September – and Shaun – who runs his own business from home – were able to soak up the culture, visiting the Colosseum and Roman Forum and sampling some Italian gelato.

After that they headed out to the Tuscany – Umbria region before beginning the long drive home in the back-up van, driven by two friends.

"They were very tired and very pleased to have done it," said Beccy.

"I think with Calum he was inspired now that he's proven to himself he can do something like that. It's a lesson for life – if things get tough you have to just knuckle down and get on with it. And for Shaun, he's realised there is still life left in the old dog.

"I feel very proud of them."

The duo have already raised around £3,500 but hope to hit their total of £4,500.

To donate, visit sponsorme.co.uk/shaunhaydon/hometorome.aspx or pop into Beccy's Border Bean coffee shop in Kington.