A WEST Devon women is taking part in a gruelling cycle ride this September, to raise money for a charity close to her heart.

Kate Burgess, 33, from Hatherleigh, has signed up for the Help for Heroes, A Bridge Too Far bike ride, which will see her cycle 350 miles in five days through Belgium and Holland.

The challenge will involve a large group of cyclists of all ages, including military servicemen who have been affected by the war.

The event will raise awareness of all those who have given and continue to risk their lives.

Mrs Burgess said she wanted to do something to help raise money in support of a family member who served in Afghanistan last year.

She said: 'It struck me during last year's Remembrance Day service that many people don't have any personal experience of conflict and, supportive as they may be to our troops, thoughts of what happens to those who are injured just don't cross their radar during their busy day-to-day lives.

'It's not just the sacrifices made during the world wars that should be remembered, but those from current conflicts too.'

In June Kate will also be taking part in the Dartmoor Classic — a non-commercial Cyclosportive ride, organised by the Mid-Devon Cycling Club.

She said: 'My husband and I are doing it together and will ride 100Km around Dartmoor — I am more nervous about that!

'It will be a benchmark to see how my training is going for the ride in September.

'I've been cycling around Hatherleigh and Winkleigh on my bike with my youngest son, Daniel, on the back seat.

'I am really looking forward to the ride, but the hardest part is the fundraising.

'Help for Heroes is an amazing charity in terms of what they've achieved in such a short time, but we need to keep giving money to the cause because it goes out as soon as it comes in — anything people can give will be greatly appreciated.'

Mrs Burgess will take part in the Help for Heroes, A Bridge Too Far, cycle ride between Monday, September 13 and Sunday, September 19. Donations can be made online at http://www.justgiving.com/Kate-Burgess">www.justgiving.com/Kate-Burgess

Mrs Burgess is also selling Help for Hero wristbands which cost £2 each plus postage donation.

Anyone who would like a wristband can email Mrs Burgess at [email protected]">[email protected]