London to Brighton ride '˜a fantastic experience'

Peter West and Stephen Muggleworth, from Banbury, joined 14,000 cyclists for the 54-mile London to Brighton cycle ride, in aid of the British Heart Foundation.

The legendary event saw thousands make the journey from city to sea.

Setting off from Clapham Common in the early hours of Sunday, June 19, riders pedalled through the beautiful countryside before finishing at Brighton’s famous promenade, Madeira Drive, where they were welcomed with cheers from supporters and a fun beach party put on by the ride’s sponsors, Tesco and Jaffa.

Peter said: “Taking part in the London to Brighton Bike Ride was a real challenge and a fantastic experience.

“The atmosphere was incredible and I am extremely proud to have been part of such an iconic event.

“Knowing I was cycling for a charity that is devoted to funding lifesaving research needed to fight heart disease made me determined to succeed.

“It was great to have everyone cheering me on to the finish line. It kept morale on the ride high, which was much needed to complete the dreaded Ditchling Beacon.

“But it was well worth it when I reached the top – the views were absolutely stunning and it was then downhill to the finish line.”

Head of Events at BHF, Nancy Smyth, said: “The BHF relies entirely on the generosity of our supporters to pay for life saving research into heart disease.

“I would like to thank and congratulate everyone who took on this gruelling challenge, everyone who supported our cyclists and all of our volunteers.”