A FORDINGBRIDGE woman is gearing up for an “epic challenge and adventure”.

Sandra Hodgkyns sets off on a 300 mile cycle ride from London to Paris in July in aid of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

The 44-year-old, who works at Southampton General Hospital, said: “I signed up for this challenge last year thinking it would be a great idea, now it is getting closer, still a great idea but the nerves are setting in.

“I have only been cycling for just over the last two years so this will be an epic challenge and adventure for me.

“Since I have been cycling sadly I am aware of many cyclist who have been injured or worse. I have decided due to this, to support Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA) as a charity that is local to me.

“Whether out for a walk, playing rugby, driving to work, riding your horse or pushing on your pedals you never know when you will need the excellent medical and flying skills of HIOWAA to take you, a friend or a loved one swiftly to our local trauma hospitals."

Sandra will have to cycle approximately 70 miles a day and says she is looking forward to the challenge.

She added: "I am looking forward to that sense of achievement when I finish, and looking at some of the scenery when I am not struggling up the hills and maybe just a bit of a sun tan.

"Finally and more importantly I am pleased that I am raising money for HIOWAA and appreciating that I can ride."

The ride finishes on July 25 at the Effiel Tower via the Champ Elysees and Arc de Triomphe — the day before the final of the Tour de France,

She said: "I am very comfortable riding for long distances on the flat, however I hate riding up hills and my speed can drop from about 17mph to about five. I am also not great when I am tired and I think tiredness will inevitably be a major part of this ride spending many hours at a time in the saddle."

Sandra has set herself a target of raising £2,000 and is in urgent need of support from the community.

She added: “Please help me raise as much as possible with your donation as I ride to Paris from London - you only need a few clicks on the mouse, every penny helps.”

She thanked the Ancient Order of Forester who have agreed to sponsor her and everyone that has supported so far and Dean Palmers Garage.

To make a donation and support Sandra go to uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SandraHodgkyns

Alternatively, sponsorship forms are at Reflections.