HOWZAT? Cricket legend David Gower was bowled over by the fundraising efforts of teenage cyclist Kieran Thorne from Ferndown.

Kieran, 16, achieved a personal challenge to raise more money than the former England cricket captain when both took part in this year’s Daily Echo-backed Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride.

Kieran was the highest fundraiser at this year’s event, raising £2,765, replacing David at the top of the scoreboard after the cricketer raised the most in 2009.

David who this year raised £1,515 for Macmillan funds, still tops the event’s all-time fundraising scoreboard, raising £3,010 in 2009.

Bournemouth School pupil Kieran was presented with a certificate of appreciation by David at the Primera Sports shop in Charminster.

He also received a £50 voucher from event sponsors Primera.

Kieran had originally planned to complete the 100-mile route but ended up doing the 60-mile route after getting a puncture part-way round the course.

He raised more cash after persuading his grandparents to open their gardens to the public and sister Amber performed songs from the musicals.

Kieran said: “It took me about six hours to do the course. Afterwards I was pretty tired. Last year I was the second highest sponsor so this year I just challenged myself to try and raise more. Next year I am hoping to do the London to Paris cycle ride as part of my Duke of Edinburgh, which is four days of cycling.”

David Gower described Kieran’s total as “a good sum”, adding: “I am sure it will only make him more determined for next year.”

More than £70,000 has been collected so far from participants in this year’s event with more expected.