AN Aston Fields woman is preparing to cycle in Britain’s biggest bike race for a generation to raise money for a cause close to her heart.

Emma Norman has signed up for the Prudential Ride, London-Surrey 100, which will see 20,000 riders tackle a 100 mile route.

The Scaife Road resident was inspired to take on the cycling challenge by her father, Peter, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer 10 years ago and only given a 10 per cent chance of surviving another five years.

But a decade after his diagnosis he was able to walk the 30-year-old down the aisle at her wedding last month.

To give something back to the charity Beating Bowel Cancer, which supported her dad, Mrs Norman has signed up for the event which is being held this weekend, August 3-4.

The race starts from the new Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and finishes on The Mall in central London.

She will be part of Beating Bowel Cancer’s team of riders being led by television and rugby star Matt Dawson, which is aiming to raise a combined total of £40,000.

Mrs Norman said: “My dad was diagnosed with advanced bowel cancer on my mum’s 40th birthday.

“Dad was only 45 at the time and it was a huge shock.

“He refused to be beaten and is now cancer free. My wedding day was incredibly special because dad was there.

“The charity Beating Bowel Cancer does amazing work trying to raise awareness of the disease and support those diagnosed.”

Anyone who wants to make a donation to Mrs Norton’s ride can do so at her fund-raising webpage, justgiving.com/emmanormanride100.

Mrs Norman is also the lead singer of the As Night Dies band. The group has organised a benefit gig, featuring other bands, which is being held this Friday, August 2, at The Asylum Venue in Birmingham.

Tickets cost £3, with all proceeds going towards the charity challenge. To order tickets email emmjanenorman83@hotmail.co.uk.