A WOMAN is taking part in the Tour de Yorkshire as part of her training for a fundraising cycle challenge.

Gemma Richardson, who lives in Kirkbymoorside, has signed up for the Tour de Yorkshire Sportive, which takes place in Leeds on Sunday, May 3.

The 100km race is one of a series of events giving cyclists the opportunity to experience the route ridden by the pro-riders.

Gemma said she had signed up as soon as it had been announced.

“It is going to be very exciting and I am really looking forward to the Tour de Yorkshire, it will be fantastic for our area,” she said.

The 22-year-old is using the event as part of her training for a 300-mile London to Paris bike ride in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care.

She was inspired to take up the challenge after watching last year’s Tour de France and knowing friends who has been supported by the charity.

“My training is well under way, I am getting out cycling two or three times a week and also attending fitness classes and doing a lot of strength and power work at Peter Nelson Fitness Studio, in Pickering,” she said.

“Peter is supporting me and it is important to get as much training in as possible leading up to the event to make it more enjoyable on the day.”

Gemma said that so far she had raised £1,726, with a final fundraising event on Sunday at Spice 4 U in Pickering.

“I held a prize bingo in December at the Royal British Legion in Kirkbymoorside, which was absolutely packed and I was overwhelmed by the amount I raised and how many supported my event,” she said.

“I have had a lot of support from local people and businesses who have donated prizes and would like to thank everyone who has supported me so far.”

The fundraising meal has sittings at 12.30pm, 3.30pm and 6.30pm. Tickets are £20 for a three-course meal and available by phoning Gemma on 07771 359424 or 01751 432545 and from Spice 4 U in Pickering.

To sponsor Gemma or make a donation, go to justgiving.com/GemsPedalsL2P or Gemma’s Facebook page – Gemma Pedals London to Paris for Marie Curie Cancer Care.