A CYCLING psychic has raised thousands of pounds for charity after tackling a gruelling, long-distance bike ride.

Ronald Buckingham, 65, of Rosemary Avenue, Braintree, took part in the London to Brighton Bike Ride in aid of the Bright Heart Foundation, which helps people with heart problems and circulatory diseases.

The 56-mile expedition, which is Europe’s oldest charitable bike jaunt and celebrates its 45th anniversary next year, saw the sporty spiritualist set off from London’s Clapham Common before passing through the picturesque Sussex countryside.

After battling the elements for most of the journey, the pedal-pushing medium, who has appeared on TV shows, published a best-selling book and is currently on a nationwide tour, eventually finished on Brighton seafront.

Ronald said: “Thankfully there were no real problems on route, even though there were thousands of other cyclists taking part.

“It did pour down with rain for a lot of the journey, but I managed to finish the ride and it was great fun.”

Since the race, which Ronald prepared for by cycling an average of 100 miles a week for several months, the clairvoyant has seen his fundraising total pass a staggering £4,700 and donations are continuing to be sent in.

Ronnie now hopes his charitable efforts will help to have a positive impact on the British Heart Foundation’s ongoing research into combating the risks that come with having heart problems.

He said: “So many people have heart problems and strokes and so I thought it was a good cause and worth doing.

“I hope my donations help in some way and I’d like to thank all of my friends who have sponsored me because they have also played a vital part.”

Ronald’s next show – An Evening of Clairvoyance – will take place on Monday at Newmarket Memorial Hall.