A FATHER and son will cycle 11,000 miles that will bring them closer than ever.

Mark and Sam Swain, from Canterbury, will leave the west coast of Ireland on Saturday (July 26) for their epic ride through more than 16 countries.

The journey was born when a 10 year-old Sam - now 18 - asked his dad how far Japan was.

Health and safety consultant Mark, 50, says it will forge their relationship in the most challenging of conditions and they are raising money for a charity working with victims of domestic violence.

The pair will cycle back to Canterbury before leaving the city on August 9 for the bulk of the ride.

For the full story and pictures see this week's Kentish Gazette.