Getting to the heart of cross-channel cycle

Sarah Miles is putting in the miles as she prepares to pedal some 290km from London to Amsterdam in three days.

Her lengthy spell in the saddle will be in aid of the British Heart Foundation whose London Road outlet she has run for 15 months.

Sarah will be joined on her journey into the unknown in April by her best friend, Hayley Cossins, who volunteers at the shop.

They are aiming to raise 2,600 between them for the foundation. East Preston resident Sarah (26) said: "We wanted to do more for the foundation than just volunteer in the shop.

"We were signed up to do one of the mountain treks but I have a digestive problem which means it would be too much of a health risk.

"The cycle ride seems a good alternative '“ except for the fact that the only cycling I've done until recently is a ten-minute ride to school."

Sarah is putting that right by cycling the 30- mile round trip from her home to work every day. It is taking her about 40 minutes each way.

She and Durrington resident Hayley (25), who works with autistic children, are also co-ordinating their days off to go cycling together.

"I'm really enjoying cycling," said Sarah. "I didn't think I would, especially as I'm not one for exercise. It certainly wakes you up in the morning rather than coming in by train. Most drivers are all right and bus drivers, in particular, are really good to you.

"But I've never done anything like this cycle ride at all."