A MUM who only took up cycling 12 months ago is to undertake an epic ride from London to Paris to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society.

Mum-of-two Ann Butler, aged 52, who lives in Astley Bridge, will be completing the arduous challenge of cycling 100 miles a day over four days from July 20-23.

Ann, who is a local team leader with British Cycling’s Breeze initiative aimed at getting women back into cycling, said: "I only got a bike a year ago and decided I needed something to aim for. I’ve done a few triathlons since then and people were starting to say I should try a Half Ironman – there’s no way I could manage that so I had to find something else.

"When I saw the Alzheimer’s Society were asking for people to cycle London to Paris to raise cash it seemed the perfect choice.

"A friend I train with had a terrible experience with her dad having dementia before he died, another friend lost both parents just before Christmas to dementia and my son George’s friend's grandma has recently been diagnosed.

"It seems to be everywhere but gets little exposure compared to other charities."

The charity ride to the French capital culminates in a cycle up the Champs Elysees the day before this year’s Tour de France competitors follow on the iconic final leg of the race in Paris.

In the run-up to the challenge, a fundraising "puncture party" was held at Canon Slade School in Bradshaw Brow recently with more than 50 cyclists bringing a wheel from their bikes to be shown by a team of experts how to replace a tyre and mend a puncture at the roadside.

Expert tuition was given by John Spencer of the Green Machine cycle shop, Horwich, Richard Peat of Decathlon Bolton, as well as experienced local cyclists Steve Riddle of Tri Rivington Triathlon Club and Michael Entwistle of the Holy Rollers Cycling Club.

The puncture party raised more than £700 for the Alzheimer’s charity appeal. To make a donation visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/AnnButlerL2P.