Battling snow-swept plains and icy fjords, as well as contending with the problems a 20-year-old bike throws up, Penryn’s Jack Burns is currently part way through his challenge to cycle across Iceland and then back to the UK.

The 23-year-old is raising money for international water aid charity Just a Drop, and is about a third of the way to his £500 target.

He set off from Isafjordur in the westfjords of Iceland on April 21 and is slowly, but surely, making his way back to mainland Europe and then the UK.

Despite warnings of closed roads, severe weather and the possibility of the eruption of a volcano, Jack has faith that he and his trusty 20 year old Raleigh bike will complete the challenge, which is one in a series of adventures he has planned for this year.

Next month, he will tackle a marathon and not long after he crosses that finishing line, he’ll be dusting off his walking boots in time to take on the Welsh Three Peaks Challenge.

Jack said: “Just a Drop helps some of the world’s poorest and most neglected communities gain access to clean, safe water – something I believe everyone has a right to.

Every penny I raise will go towards changing the lives of people who do not have this simple but precious gift of water and that’s a thought which will spur me on through all of my challenges.”

Nicola Swann, fundraising and communications manager at Just a Drop added: “We are delighted that Jack is exerting such pedal power for this challenge and we are so grateful for his support, time and energy.

“We hope that he is paving the way for more people to get involved with Just a Drop.”

To sponsor Jack, simply go to his JustGiving page, http://www.justgiving.com/Jack-Burns1.