Hundreds of cyclists enter for first London to Hastings charity bike ride for BHF

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is organising the first London to Hastings bike ride, which follows a 61-mile route, starting at Crystal Palace.

The route cuts through the North Downs and High Weald before making its way down to Hastings.

Cyclists of all abilities are being asked to sign up with friends, family and colleagues and celebrate their achievement at the finish with a certificate and refreshments.

Jenny Pinder, 77, of Coronation Gardens, who is part of a samba reggae drummer band called Dende, will be playing at the finish line.

Her granddaughter's partner will be taking part in Sunday's ride.

Mrs Pinder had her first heart attack when she was 69 and had two further heart attacks due to atherosclerosis, a condition in which an artery wall thickens after a build-up of fatty materials.

After each heart attack Mrs Pinder had stents fitted to help the blood flow through the arteries.

She also had cardiac rehabilitation after the first two heart attacks at the Conquest Hospital.

She said: "When I drum I feel my heart is beating regularly. Normally I walk with a stick but when I have my drum around my neck I can walk without it."

To register for the British Heart Foundation's London to Hastings Bike Ride or to volunteer at the ride finish phone free on 0808 100 2109.