A CREDITON woman will tomorrow, Saturday, August 19, begin a 1,000-mile cycle ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats, in memory of her mother.

Karen Gutans will spend the next two weeks on the journey, and hopes that friends and relations as well as other generous benefactors, will support her to raise funds for Hospiscare, the care charity based in Exeter.

Karen explained: “In January 2007 my mum was diagnosed with skin cancer.

“After seven months of operations and treatment, the cancer spread to other organs, and just six months later on July 19, 2007, aged 66 years, mum passed away.

“As 2017 is the 10th anniversary of Mum’s death, I thought it would be the perfect time to tackle a challenge in order to raise money for Hospiscare, who were extremely supportive when mum died.”

In July Karen took part in The Big Welsh Swim, at Snowdonia, North Wales.

This was a three-way swim totalling 5.6 miles (9k) and took about four hours.

Tomorrow, she and Mike will take part in the 1,000-mile cycle with Pedal Nation Bicycle Tours, which should be completed within 14 days.

Karen added: “I am excited to be taking part in these events, and would love it if anyone was able to support me by donating a few pennies (or pounds!) to Hospiscare.

“We also had another family bereavement in January this year when my son’s wife, Babette, died just one week after being diagnosed with cancer. Then in April Mike lost his mum as well.

“Life can deal some cruel blows so I think it is important to live life to the full and do as much as you are able to whilst enjoying every moment you have – we never know when our time will be up.”

Karen is a local swimming instructor and Triathlon coach, and works for Mid Devon Leisure in Crediton and Tiverton, as well as coaching for Exeter Tri Club.

Karen has set up a JustGiving page where people can donate: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/karen-gutans1 .

Alan Quick