A BASINGSTOKE woman was inspired by her father-in law to take on a cycling challenge on Sunday last week.

Around 16,000 cyclists saddled up to complete the British Heart Foundation’s (BHF) London to Brighton Bike Ride on to help fund the charity’s life saving research into heart and circulatory disease.

Amongst those riding was Leigh Ballinger, 47, from Basingstoke, who took on the challenge because her father-in-law, John, has a heart problem.

Leigh cycled alongside her husband Dave in the second time she has taken part in the London to Brighton Bike Ride.

After crossing the finish line in 3 hours 50 minutes, Leigh said: “Taking part in the British Heart Foundation’s London to Brighton Bike Ride was such an incredible experience. The atmosphere along the route was fantastic and I’m so proud to have been cycling for the BHF’s vital heart research.

"Knowing that I was raising money for such a great cause really spurred me on to the finish line – even on the steep climb up the dreaded Ditchling Beacon! I’m proud that the money I raised will help make a difference to the seven million people living with heart and circulatory disease in the UK.”

Elizabeth Tack, Event Lead for the BHF’s London to Brighton Bike Ride, said: “Without the dedication and commitment of people like Leigh, we wouldn’t be able to fund research that has broken new ground, revolutionised treatments and transformed the lives of millions of people in the UK.

“The stories of why our amazing supporters take part never fails to amaze me and it was incredible to see Leigh and around 16,000 others take on this iconic challenge, which will help us put the brakes on heart and circulatory disease for good.”

In Basingstoke and Deane, 15,700 people are currently living with heart and circulatory disease.