A FORMER student who cycled around the world and a Tottenham Hotspur player will feature in a college’s inaugural guest speaker programme.

Starting on January 26, Epping Forest College will invite in a series of inspirational people to speak about their motivations and the hurdles they have overcome.

On Friday, Leigh Timmis kicks things off at 7.30pm at the college’s theatre.

In 2010, Mr Timmis left the UK to cycle around the world, covering 44,000 miles and crossing 51 countries over seven years and on a budget of only £5 per day.

Pushing the limits of cycling and human endurance, he rode his bike – Dolly – in some of the most inhospitable places on Earth.

Arnie Skelton, head of enterprise and innovation at the college, said: “His is a story about the ups and downs. It’s about having a goal and being prepared.

“He’s an ex student and a very inspirational speaker.”

Following Mr Timmis on February 13 will be Natalia Cohen, team leader of a four women crew which rowed across the Pacific, Richard Holgarth, rock guitarist and guitar tutor on March 21, and on April 11 Jon Porter, a UN hot-spot worker.

Sara Rowbotham, the whislteblower in the Rochdale sex scandal, follows on May 15, ultramarathon runner Richard Lawton on June 29 and on July 12, an as yet un-disclosed Spurs first team player.

The series is funded by workspace provided CRATE and is free of charge.

To reserve a ticket, email arnie at askelton@efc.ac.uk