HINDHEAD resident Michael Gane got into gear to complete the the British Heart Foundation (BHF) London to Brighton Bike Ride to help fund life-saving research into heart and circulatory disease.

Thousands of riders of all abilities cycled the 54-mile route from Clapham Common, through the Surrey and Sussex countryside, finishing at Brighton’s seafront.

Now in its 43rd year, it is Europe’s oldest charity cycling event, helping to raise nearly £70million for the fight against heart disease. This year’s challenge raised over £3.1 million for the BHF’s vital work.

Thirty-three-year-old Mr Game, who raised £800, took up the gauntlet, because 11 months ago he had open heart surgery to replace an aortic valve.

After crossing the finish line, Michael 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 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 organiser for the BHF’s London to Brighton Bike Ride, added: “Without the dedication and commitment of people like Michael, 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 Michael 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 Surrey, 116,100 people are currently living with the burden of heart and circulatory disease.The London to Brighton Bike Ride is part of a calendar of more than 80 challenge events in aid of the BHF, both in the UK and abroad.