Former England captain Michael Vaughan has completed the grueling 462-mile PruProtect Chance to Ride charity bike ride after a night ride from Southampton to London this morning (Tuesday).

Vaughan was joined on the final 70-mile stage from Southampton to The Kia Oval by fundraisers and celebrity supporters including former tennis ace Tim Henman and England footballer Jamie Redknapp who have raised thousands for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation and Chance to Shine. 

Local school children welcomed the peloton as it arrived in the early hours. It had followed the England v Australia - NatWest One Day International series, travelling to each of the cricket venues before reaching its conclusion today.

Vaughan, who guided England to Ashes victory in 2005, said: "It's going to be a long long time before I want to see a saddle again! The PruProtect Chance to Ride has been everything I expected it to be tough, exhilarating, inspiring and great fun."

"We're raising a lot of money for Laureus and Chance to Shine, two great causes and it will all be worth it for the kids who get to play sport or get other opportunities thanks to the funds we have raised."

"I'd also really like to thank the fundraisers and friends who joined me, including Andrew Strauss, Victoria Pendleton, Jamie Redknapp, Tim Henman and Mark Nicholas."

Tim Henman added: As a Laureus Ambassador, I was delighted that Michael invited me on Chance to Ride and although it was a challenge, I really enjoyed the night ride to London.

"This event has had great support since it started 12 days ago and Michael deserves a lot of credit for making it happen and getting us all together to help raise funds for disadvantaged children."

Laureus World Sports Academy Member Sean Fitzpatrick was also at the Kia Oval, welcoming the returning riders. He said: "It was a great feat by all the riders and I would like to congratulate them for their support on this initiative. Michael Vaughan and his fellow Ambassadors have made a superb contribution to Laureus and Chance to Shine during the Ride."

Vaughan has undertaken two bike rides for Laureus in the past as well as completing one leg of International Triathlon Union World Championship Series in Hyde Park last year.

Both the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation and Chance to Shine initiative use sport to aim to improve children's lives through the power of sport by providing coaching, education and equipment and instill sporting values.

To sponsor Michael following his epic bike ride click: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserPage.action?userUrl=MichaelVaughan&pageUrl=2