TWO women from Trowbridge have cemented their friendship by tackling a mammoth cycling challenge together by riding from London to Paris.

Tracey Edwards of Hilperton Road took on the 315 mile cycle at the end of last month in aid of Action Medical Research with her close friend Felicity Warwood-Hart. The pair managed to raise over £3,500 in the process.

Mrs Edwards, who is the south west fundraising manager for the children’s charity, said after seven years of inspiring thousands of people to take part in the ride, she decided to take up two wheels to raise funds herself.

The 51-year-old said: “It was amazing and quite a journey. It was really emotional and I did blub a lot on the last day, I have to admit.

“I still can’t believe I did it. I cycled up every hill, pedalled every mile and made some fantastic friends along the way. It was hard at times, particularly the last day for me when you are so close to Paris and you’re really very tired, but we all supported each other to keep on going.

“We both send a huge and very sincere thank you to all who have supported us and sponsored myself and Felicity, we really appreciate it.”

Almost 150 cyclists took part in the charity’s 16th annual London to Paris ride last month and they are on track to raise £250,000.

Action Medical Research helps find pioneering treatments for life-changing conditions and the charity is currently funding research into meningitis, Down syndrome, epilepsy and premature birth.

Mrs Warwood-Hart, 47, a primary school teacher at Walwayne Court School, added: “It was a wonderful experience from start to finish. The first day was definitely the most challenging in riding 89 miles with a deadline for the ferry of 4.30pm. We made it in good time which gave us a huge boost in confidence for the next few days.

“We met the most wonderful people riding for the best reasons, including one young lady fulfilling her friend's bucket list. It was a privilege to cycle alongside them and Tracey and I have both made some new friends for life.

“Having family waiting for us at the Eiffel Tower was the icing on the cake - my son Robert is now thinking of taking on the challenge next year.”

To donate, visit www.action.org.uk/sponsor/traceyandfelicity.