A SOUTH Cerney soldier has raised thousands of pounds for charity by commemorating the death of every British soldier killed so far in the conflict in Afghanistan.

Staff Sergeant Billy Webb, who recently returned to South Cerney after a six-month tour of Cyprus, cycled four km for every British soldier killed in the conflict – a distance of more than 3,500km.

Staff Sgt Webb, who was serving with Royal Logistic Corps 81 Squadron, said he wasn’t prepared for how tough the challenge would be.

"I didn't quite realise how far it was going to be," he said.

"The first few days weren't so bad but then it started to get into 40 degree heat."

As part of his challenge he was joined by a number of his colleagues in cycling 735 miles around the entire island, raising a total of more than £5,000 for the Forces Children's Trust and the Army Benevolence Fund.

A number of members of the regiment, including regiment physiotherapist Sgt Ben Cannon, joined in the challenge.

St Cannon said the team had received support from Cyprus and the Cotswolds.

"We got so much support from people on the island – we couldn't have done it without them," he said.

"The Army is so supportive when you do something for charity as well - its fantastic."

Staff Sgt Webb agreed, saying he was glad he was able to spend his time off duty doing something worthwhile.

"You can do something constructive or you can just sit down in front of the TV and do nothing," he said.

He added was glad to be finished, but was already planning his next challenge, including cycling from Paris to London.

"The last few days were the hardest for me," he said.

"I'm going to take a couple of weeks off to recover."