Photographer completes gruelling cycle ride (From Watford Observer)

Steve Clarke cycles from London to Brighton in aid of British Heart Foundation

5:15pm Tuesday 25th September 2012 in News By Ben Endley, Senior reporter

A Croxley Green man has completed a gruelling cross-country charity cycle ride in memory of his grandfather who died of heart problems.

Steve Clarke, 31, pedalled 75 miles off-road from London to Brighton in aid of the British Heart Foundation (BHF) on Saturday (September 22).

The photographer, of Grove Crescent, said this his major fundraising exercise and he was inspired to take part in memory of his grandfather Albert Clarke and for his father Barry who has suffered a heart attack and been diagnosed with coronary heart disease.

He said: "I have wanted to do something for charity for a while but I wasn’t sure what.

"I saw the cycling challenge and it seemed like a good thing to do, especially as it’s for the British Heart Foundation.

"This is the first thing like this I have done but I definitely want to do it again, I am going to sign up for the same event next year."

Mr Clarke was one of 1,800 riders setting off from Richmond Park along cycle paths, single track roads and forest trails in mercifully dry and sunny weather.

The whole ride took him eight hours and he was met at the finish line in Brighton by his father, having raised almost £300 for the charity.

He said: "My legs still feel very sore, it was a very tough ride but I absolutely loved it, it was great fun and a really great thing to do..

"It was a very physical challenge and there were a few rocky bits where the terrain was tough and I wasn’t sure I’d be able to finish."

He added: "I was able to push through knowing it was for such a good cause and knowing the money raised will help people like my father and great uncles.

"The atmosphere and encouragement from my family and the other riders helped spur me on."

Organisers hope this event will raise £150,000 for the heart charity.

Nancy Prior, head of events at the BHF, said: "We would like to thank Steve and everyone else who took part, supported us and volunteered for our London to Brighton Off-Road Ride.

"It has been a fantastic event and everyone has had a great time. Everyone who has backed this event is helping us in our fight against heart disease."

Anyone wishing to add their sponsorship please visit www.justgiving.com/steve-clarke3.