A Dawlish cyclist is hoping the prospect of a pint of the black stuff will be enough to keep him and three friends going on a 500-mile fundraising ride through Ireland.

Brian Robinson, deputy manager at the town's leisure centre, is to tackle the three-day round trip from Dublin later this month.

The 51-year-old is setting out with fellow cyclists Martin Painter, Nigel Potts and Jim Patterson in a bid to raise at least £1,000 to be shared by Rowcroft Hospice, Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundation.

Mr Patterson's 42-year-old girlfriend, Alison Duncan, died last year after developing cancer.

'We decided to choose this route as the organisers, Challenge Adventure Challenges, do it really well with marshals on the route,' said Mr Robinson.

'We also thought it would be a great way to see Ireland's wonderful scenery.

'We'd welcome any support people would like to give us.'

The four-man team will have to cover up to 170 miles each day across terrain that can be mountainous and prone to bad weather.

Each will take it in turns to cycle ten miles at a time.

The adventure is set to begin on September 29, ending up with a meal and tour of the famous Guinness factory.

'There might just be a pint of the black stuff to help us celebrate the finish,' said Mr Robinson.