A Dorchester businessman is using lockdown to help mental health charities after already raising £12,000.

Steve Chaldecott, manager of the Wessex Royale Hotel in Dorchester, wants to do something with his time while the hotel is closed during the current lockdown.

He has decided to cycle from Dorchester to Lands End and back again, around 280 miles, to raise money for Dorset Mind and the national charity Mind.

The idea started a few months ago when Steve decided to use his time by being sponsored for a series of projects.

In the beginning, it was 25 press-ups a day for 25 days, moving on to 75 days trekking around Dorset, then guess the location cycling tours. They proved so popular and he raised £12,000 for the mental health charities. Now he is taking on his biggest challenge with the cycle ride.

Steve said: "I'm not someone who is a fitness fanatic, but rather than sit at home I decided to do something constructive with my time.

"These charities are trying to help people understand it's OK to feel anxious or depressed. The important thing is to talk about it You don't have to be the big tough man and keep your worries to yourself.

"If you're suffering from anxiety or depression, then tell someone. Nothing is gained from silence.

"If I can help just one person with my fundraising targets, it's all worth it."

Find out more about Steve's projects here

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