This August, a group of 13 cyclists took part in the Prudential RideLondon to raise funds and awareness for Haven House Children’s Hospice.

The 100-mile cycle challenge, which took place on Sunday 2 August, has so far raised £13,365 for Haven House.

Shenfield resident, Alistair Johnston (46) joined the 26,000 cyclists en route and was participating for the first time.

Explaining why he signed up to the challenge, Alistair said: “I love cycling and the freedom that it gives you to be out on the roads with your own thoughts.

“A few years ago I visited Haven House and they do a fantastic job. I know they need the support to continue everything they do so it was a ‘no brainer’ in terms of deciding which charity to support for the ride.”

Alistair has already surpassed his fundraising target of £2,500 having raised an incredible £3,585.79 to date.

Speaking to Alistair the day after the event, he said: “I was pleased with myself to have finished in five hours five minutes. The last 20 miles really hurt but gels and power bars helped for that last hour. Today, I feel surprisingly fine. No major aches or pains. Maybe it will hit me tomorrow!”

RideLondon celebrates the legacy for cycling created by the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The race followed a 100-mile route on closed roads through the capital and into Surrey’s stunning countryside before finishing on The Mall.

Hackney residents and keen cyclists Rob Chetwood (28) and Olly Cant (28) were also part of the Haven House RideLondon team (pictured).

Endurance events continue this month with the London Triathlon, which has seven Haven House fundraisers taking part, including two staff members. The event (Saturday 8 August) is expected to bring in an additional £3,000 for the hospice.

Leytonstone resident, Laura Griffiths (30), a member of the fundraising team, will be taking part with her husband James Griffiths (33). It’s their first triathlon and they’ve picked the world’s largest which is expected to attract 13,000 triathletes of all abilities.

Commenting on training, Laura said: “It’s been tough and there have been times we’ve asked ourselves why we’re doing it. Working at the hospice and seeing how the money raised goes to help the families we support reminds me why we’re taking on the challenge.”

Mike Palfreman, Chief Executive of Haven House, added: "While most people are enjoying their summer holidays and relaxing during August, these local supporters have been training tirelessly to prepare. Challenge events are becoming increasingly popular and we’re delighted that so many people are taking them on to raise vital funds for life-limited children and families in the area.”

You can sponsor Laura and James via their JustGiving page https://www.justgiving.com/laurajamesgriffiths/