AN Exmouth woman is taking on one of the world’s toughest races to raise money for the cancer charity which supports her step-mother.

Ellen Yeates, 36, will be taking on the Ironman France race in Nice, which will involve completing a 2.4 mile sea swim, a 112 mile alpine cycle ride and a marathon, all in one day.

However, even this gruelling challenge wasn’t tough enough for Ellen, so she plans to reach the start line by cycling 1,000 miles through France!

To complete this awesome challenge, Ellen, who works as a lawyer, will undergo six months of training.

Ellen, who lives in Maer Lane, is taking on the challenge to raise money for HASAG, a support group for asbestos-related cancer sufferers.

HASAG has been helping Ellen’s step-mother Sandra Yeates since she was diagnosed with mesothelioma last year.

Sandra and Ellen’s dad, Roger, will be following Ellen’s ride through France in their campervan, providing much-needed support, as she expects to spend up to 10 hours a day in the saddle.

When asked why she decided to cycle to the Ironman, Ellen revealed an unusual motivation.

Ellen said: “It’s probably because I’m a bit cheap and I thought it would be the cheapest way to get there!

“I cycle to work and I set up a cycle group at the office. We see all these other people doing these amazing rides and I thought it would be green, as well as cost effective.

“I’m a bit scared now because I know I have to go through with it!”

Ellen’s ride will begin at Michelmores Solicitors’ office in Pynes Hill, Exeter, and she is inviting local cyclists to join her for the first leg.

“I want a really good send off and I’m asking for volunteers to ride with me on the Devon leg.

“Even if people can only give 10 minutes of their time, or an hour, or even the full day’s ride, then I’d love to hear from them.”

Ellen will be setting off on her bike ride on June 6 at 12pm, and the Ironman France race takes place on June 26.

Anyone wanting to join Ellen on the ride through Devon can contact her on 07765 169826 or ellen.yeates@michelmores.com. To make a donation visit www.justgiving.com/BigFrenchCycle