A GROUP of friends who have all been affected by cancer in some way are set to saddle up for the biggest female cycling event in the UK.

The team of seven, who are from Keswick and Penrith, have named themselves as Elaine’s Cycling Angles and will take part in the 100km Ride the Night event in London for the charity, Women V Cancer, this weekend.

The nighttime route starts and ends at the Royal Windsor racecourse and takes in many iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace and the London Eye.

Women V Cancer is a special fundraising partnership between Breast Cancer Care, Ovarian Cancer Action and Jo’s Cervical Cancer trust.

The Cumbrian team comprises of Elaine Alston, Hayley Hodgson, Christine Hill, Ally Walton, Fionna Newman, Sarah Nicholson and Fiona Pattinson - who all are from various walks of life, from ambulance paramedics to a librarian.

Elaine, who came up with the idea of taking part in the ride, told the News & Star: “Over the last few years, I’ve had some episodes of lousy health, including a serious infection and a recent diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

“I’ve also had treatment for breast and cervical cancer, but I’m still here to tell the tale, so thought I’d look for a challenge that would also raise some money for research into women’s cancers.

“I persuaded my team of ladies, all more amazing than I can say, to join me for this 100km ride through the night – along with 4,000 other women.”

The group are all excited about taking part in the ride.

Fellow cyclist Sarah added: “I am a keen amateur cyclist, but this is a long way.

“Normally when I am out on a long bike ride I look at the views, but this is at night in the pitch black.”

Fiona is looking forward to maintaining her fitness after a recent cycling holiday with her husband Brian, who owns Whinlatter bikes in Keswick.

Hayley is set to compete in the Lakesman half iron man event later this year, and hopes the event will act as a training ride.

Elaine added: “When the ride numbers and information arrived in the post, I had the collywobbles all day.”

Each participant is expected to raise at least £200 for the charity.

Donations for the team can be made at justgiving.com/teams/ElainesCyclingAngels.