A cyclist from St Albans is attempting to cycle from New York to San Francisco in 42 days to raise money for a cancer charity.

Sam Crossley is currently in Wyoming after completing 2,000 miles of his 3,200-mile epic journey, which begun at the Statue of Liberty in New York on July 16.

The 23-year-old engineering graduate has so far raised £700 for his £1,000 target for Macmillan cancer support.

Sam, who graduated from his master’s degree in mechanical engineering the day before setting off, said: "The idea came to me about a year ago when I was more curious as to whether it could be done, and after some rough planning the idea became more of a possibility.

"I chose Macmillan cancer support because of the priceless work they do to support people and families suffering from cancer.

"They were there for my grandparents before they passed away so I thought it worthwhile to give something back.

"The work they do is simply amazing and the care they provide extends beyond care for patients; practical, emotional and financial support is offered to friends, family and colleagues as well."

Sam, who is cycling an average of 87.5 miles each day, planned the trip for over a year.

His route will take him through 13 states, starting with a tour of some of Americas big cities such as Pittsburgh, Michigan City and Chicago before he travels further into the mid-west for some long straight roads, crossing into desert country and across the Bonneville Salt flats before dropping into California.

So far Sam has encountered some frightening storms, been chased by dogs, called 911 when he found an elderly lady crashed in a ditch, recovered from an ankle sprain and cycled hill climbs of over 3,000 feet.

Sam, who lives in Homefield Road, continued: "The experience so far has been fantastic. Every day has something different, and the surroundings change so dramatically as I progress across the country.

"The people I've met along the way have been very welcoming and generous, and all wish me luck on my travels.

That, combined with messages and donations from friends and family, gives me the motivation to keep going.

"I'm of the belief that with the right support you can achieve anything, whether that's cycling across America or beating cancer."

Sam is hoping to cross the finish line at the Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco on August 27. He can still be sponsored at: https://www.justgiving.com/TwoTyredTravels/