Bradley Wiggins’ long-distance cycling might have captivated the nation this summer, but a Hackney man has taken the idea to a whole new level.

Jawid Dawran, 39, of Hoxton St, set off alone four months ago on a 5000-mile trek to Kabul in his native Afghanistan, to raise money for the War Child charity, getting robbed—and attacked by wild dogs—along the way.

Jawid reached Kabul last week after passing through 17 countries, and was greeted by his father along with Afghan journalists.

His step-daughter, student Hayley Jukes, said: “Apparently he had quite a hero’s welcome when he arrived.

“His father was worried about him cycling through so many different countries.

“It was quite nerve-wracking for us, waiting to hear updates from him. We’re extremely proud and we hope he raises lots more money for War Child.

“We’re really looking forward to him coming home.”

War Child runs Early Childhood Development centres in Afghanistan, giving children a basic education and places to socialise, as well as helping those caught up in the justice system. One in seven Afghan children won’t live beyond age five, according to the group.

Jawid has raised �1000 so far at www.justgiving.com/jawid-dawran