OLYMPIAN Sally Gunnell is taking on a gruelling bike ride for a children’s hospice.

The athlete and broadcaster is joining dozens of cyclists for a 200 mile cycle challenge from Chestnut Tree House near Arundel to Paris.

Sally, who lives in Steyning and is a patron of the charity, took part in a recent training session with her friend Emma Rogers and staff from the Giant Shoreham bike shop.

She said: “I've been a patron of Chestnut Tree House for several years now and I have seen first-hand the incredible care the nursing team provide for the children and their families.

“I am always struck by what a happy place it is, full of amazing kids who are all living life to the full.

“I don't think anybody could go there and not come away changed forever. You see the happiness and the hope and you think 'I want to help and be a small part of that.'”

Speaking before setting off on the training session, Sally said: “Training is going well and this is a great opportunity to meet some of the other cyclists and get to know them before the trip to Paris.

“It’s going to be a challenge but we are all doing it with the same goal in mind – to help provide specialist care for local children.

“It’s going to be a great trip and Emma and I are really looking forward to it.”

The 200 mile cycle, the first the hospice has organised, will go through the French countryside and finish underneath the Eiffel Tower.

All money raised will go directly towards providing care for children and young people with life-shortening conditions, both at the hospice an in families’ own homes across Sussex.

To support Sally and Emma in their fundraising efforts, visit justgiving.com/TheBaguettes.

For more details about the Parish ride, which starts on October 6, and other cycling events organised by the hospice, visit chestnut-tree-house.org.uk/cycle.