A WOMAN is taking on her biggest fitness challenge to raise funds for charity.

Gemma Richardson, 24, who lives in Kirkbymoorside, is biking 1,000 miles from Land's End to John O'Groats.

She said: "Each year I choose a different charity to support. There are so many charities out there that need the help and support from fundraisers.

"Over the years of taking part in running and cycling challenges, I have supported and raised money for various charities, including Marie Curie Cancer Care, Diabetes UK, Asthma UK, Yorkshire Air Ambulance, as well as the local charities."

Gemma, who is a personal trainer, said this year she had decided to support the British Heart Foundation.

"Since becoming a personal trainer and teaching fitness classes I have come across many people with some type of heart condition and I have seen how much it restricts their lives from exercising to day to day jobs," she said.

"Like all charities there is still a lot of research to be done to help find answers, cures and to stop so many people dying prematurely to heart disease."

Gemma said she had set herself the latest challenge after cycling from London to Paris last year.

"It was incredible so as soon as I got back I booked this. I thrive on having a challenge set, something to aim for and to focus on," she said.

"Land's End to John O'Groats will be my biggest challenge to date and will see me cycle from the bottom of the county to the top.

"I have such a passion for cycling, we live in such a beautiful country and it feels great to be on the road.

"The challenge is 12 days and each day will consist of between 80 to 110 miles. It's going to be tough, but I love being out on my bike and every pedal is worth it knowing you are helping others at the same time.

"I am very much looking forward to August 30 when I set off from John O'Groats on my 1,000-mile journey. It is my holiday for the year - I get a few laughs when I say that, but for me I can't think of a better way to spend it."

Gemma has so far raised £600 and is hosting a charity Nordic walking session from Hutton-le-Hole at 10.30am on Saturday.

For more information and to sponsor Gemma go to justgiving.com/GemmaR-LEJOG

Alternatively visit her Facebook page - Gemma Richardson - Personal Trainer or phone 07771 359424.