Cyclists set off on mammoth 'Lap of Anglia' for air ambulance charity
Around 70 cyclists are off on their 'Lap of Anglia'.
Last updated 18th Aug 2021
Around 70 cyclists have hit the roads of our region to raise money for the East Anglian Air Ambulance.
Over the next four days those taking part will aim to complete 435 miles while raising funds for the life-saving charity.
One of those taking part is Chris Marshall.
East Anglian Air Ambulance crews helped to save his life on the 12th May 2020, when he was hit by a car while out on his bicycle in Cromer.
Chris has spent the last 18 months or so recovering and getting ready to return to his bike in order to give back to the charity that saved his life.
He told us that while he's physically fitter than he has been for years, the main challenge for this ride is going to be psychological:
"The feeling is that I'm anxious about being around so many people, cars and traffic.
"I have got terrific support around me and it's been incredibly well organised so hopefully we'll be alright.
"I think for me from the mental side, it's about taking time out when I need to, if I need to have a five minute break just to compose myself then I'll do that.
"And my friends around me will know I'll need to do that.
"The first day I think will help because it's familiar roads."
He told us that all the support he's received locally has helped massively: "We're actually coming straight past my front door.
"So we are going to stop, my wife and children and parents, in laws, my mum, and my sister in-law will be here.
"I'm going through Sheringham, my home town where obviously I've cycled more times than I've had hot dinners.
"The fundraising has been absolutely phenomenal, and blown my mind.
"The support I've had from the community in Sheringham and Cromer where I live, has just been stunning, I can't thank people enough."
So far Chris has smashed his target a number of times over, with the total currently sitting at over six thousand pounds.
The lap is expected to take four days, with riders due to cross the finish line in King's Lynn on Saturday.