CINDERFORD Town supporter Ken Phelps cycled 108 miles to Saturday's FA Cup tie at Eastleigh in a bid to inspire the team.

Cinderford lost the game 3-1, but Ken has no regrets about embarking on his own unique cup journey.

When he left his Cinderford home at 5am the keen sky watcher said Venus and Jupiter were in opposition above him.

After his epic ride across the country, Ken arrived at the Hampshire ground just in time to see his football heroes shoot for the stars.

Ken rode to the Silverlake Stadium via Gloucester, Cirencester, Wootton Bassett, Marlborough, Andover and Romsey.

He started off using the back roads, but with the kick-off drawing ever nearer, switched to A roads to ensure he got there in time.

He said: "I arrived about two o'clock and had to show people my bike because no one believed I'd done it.

"The weather was good and the countryside beautiful. I had plenty of time to think about the match.

"I had the feeling that if I could make the effort so could Town – to try and beat the odds and get a result or at least a replay."

Ken, who used to play football for Hilldene Athletic, is a talented cyclist who regularly organises long distance overseas trips.

He has ridden from Cinderford to Portugal and back, as well as from the Alps to the Pyrenees.

He didn't cycle home from Eastleigh, however, he got a lift with fellow fan Mike James.

Even though Cinderford lost the cup tie, Ken is glad he went the extra mile.

He said: "I thought Eastleigh were the better side, but not by much. We hit the bar and missed a penalty.

"A lot of people at the football club were surprised by my achievements on Saturday and have offered to sponsor me if I do it again – I just hope we don't play Truro away in the Trophy at any time.

"I may do the Taunton or Tiverton games if the dates work out.

"I've watched Town since I was a schoolboy in the days of Derek Tapscott and Lyndon Smith and go to about 75 per cent of games. I'm an avid non-league supporter."