Dad and son cyclists in round-the-world record bid

Joshua and George Kohler will pass through 29 countries

A father and son are hoping to set two new world records by embarking on a year-long bike ride around the world.

George Kohler, 56, and his son Joshua, 22, from near Acle in Norfolk, will cycle 30,000km [18,641 miles] through 29 countries across four continents.

The trek could put them in the Guinness World Records for the furthest distance cycled and the fastest circumnavigation of the world, both by a father and son on bikes.

"I know we will face huge adversity on this adventure," said George.

"But I'm looking forward to seeing how our relationship develops as it's tested to its limits.

"There are times where we will be at each other's throats, I've got no doubt about that, but there will be times where we will share the most amazing joy together with the most amazing people."

People thought they were "nuts" for riding through the Nullarbor Plain in Australia, George said

They plan to set off on 29 March, leaving Norfolk for Harwich in Essex to take the ferry to the Hook of Holland for the start of the European leg.

The pair will ride through Asia, Australia and South America, while carrying all their kit on their bikes.

"The sheer scale of the challenge is incredible, with us encountering diverse cultures, remote landscapes and dangerous wildlife," added George, who served in the military for 27 years before setting up a chimney-sweeping business.

Joshua and George crossed the United States in just three months in 2022

George said he was most nervous about cycling across the Pamir Highway, which runs through Central Asia, which is part of the old Silk Road, and the Nullarbor Plain in southern Australia.

"[The Pamir Highway} is the second highest highway in the world, and it's supposed to be absolutely stunning as a cycling route, but clearly very high altitude, very remote," he said.

Of Nullarbor Plain, a flat, arid landscape which spans 746 miles [1,200km] at its widest point, he said: "Anyone who knows we're cycling through that thinks we're nuts because it's a treeless desert for miles and miles and miles.

"There's a lot of logistics involved to make sure we've got enough water and food."

The men will also ride the Pamir Highway, seen here in Tajikistan

The father and son started cycling together in 2021 and raising money for charity.

Later that year they cycled from Land's End to John O' Groats and in 2022 they cycled 3,728 miles [6,000km] across the USA in just three months.

Joshua Kohler, a content creator and filmmaker, said he was excited to document their journey and to share the experience with his father.

"We know there are going to be many ups and downs along the way but this will only strengthen our relationship," he added.

"I also want to inspire others to appreciate the times they have with their parents or children and to make time to do things together.

"We can often get carried away in our own worlds and only realise the importance of these relationships when it may be too late."