Michael Vaughan makes a surprise visit to the Full Moon at Rudge

DINERS at the Sunday carvery at the Full Moon in Rudge were surprised to see former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan at the bar.

The most successful England cricket captain ever and recently star of Strictly Come Dancing stopped off at the pub during his 462-mile cycle for charity.  The charity cycle tour with a difference runs from Headingly in Leeds to the Oval in London as he cycled around the country following the one-day internationals between England and Australia.

On Sunday he was completing the leg between Bristol and the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The 80-mile route involved a well deserved rest at The Full Moon in Rudge.

The money the cricket star raises from the mammoth cycle challenge will go towards the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation and Chance to Shine, which so far has given two million British children the chance to play cricket.

Michael Vaughan spoke to the Frome Times about the challenge that took him through Frome. He said, “I’m feeling a bit tired but I’m ok. It’s been tough and the hills are far steeper then I ever imagined but the support we have had whenever we have stopped has been fantastic.

“The main thing is to raise the profile of the charity and I’ve really enjoyed meeting cricket fans along the way who love the sport and are so passionate about it.

“This challenge has been far harder then playing international cricket or competing in an Ashes because cricket is what I know and what I do, but this has been completely different.

“The support I have had from other riders and celebrities who have joined me on the route has been fantastic. Having Victoria Pendleton was a real delight and other celebrities are joining me such as Tim Henman and Jamie Redknapp.

“It’s all for a fantastic cause and I have enjoyed the experience.”