A British man with Asperger’s syndrome is all set to tackle a 100-kilometre cycle challenge to help raise funds for the National Autistic Society (NAS).

Ben Nicholas, 35, Weston-super-Mare, will take on the Bristol Nightrider challenge on June 26.

Mr Nicholas hopes to raise awareness of autism across Britain and beyond, following recent statistics that one in every 100 people in the UK suffer from illnesses on the autistic spectrum.

This year’s challenge, which will weave its way through mountains and hills across Britain’s South West, has been described as ‘the toughest Nightrider yet’ by enthusiasts.

Speaking of the forthcoming challenge, Mr Nicholas said: “It is a huge personal goal and my way of helping the estimated 700,000 people living with autism in the UK.

“When my training is at its most gruelling, I’m spurred on by the knowledge that my efforts are helping other autistic people to get the support they need.

“I think this will be a great challenge and excellent way to raise funds for the NAS and support my autistic peers.”