TWO friends have completed the challenge of a lifetime by cycling around the world on a tandem bike.

George Agate and John Whybrow, aka The Tandem Men, circumnavigated the globe in 290 gruelling days.

The pair crossed the finish line at the weekend against the historic backdrop of Canterbury Cathedral, having endured an 18,000-mile journey through Europe, Asia and Australia before tackling the Pan-American Highway.

George, 23, grew up in Pulborough, and met John when studying at the University of Kent. They have been raising money for charities WaterAid, the Great Ormond Street Hospital and Porchlight, which helps the homeless.

People can still support them. To donate, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com and search “Tandem Men”.

They entered the Guinness Book of Records as the first tandem to achieve the feat.