A daring daughter will take on the challenge of a lifetime when she cycles 400km across India to help fight cancer.

Kay Driscoll, 50, of Maylandsea, took up cycling in 2010 in a bid to lose weight.

Kay, who was a size 28, was inspired to shed the pounds by her mum Helen and went on to lose seven-and-a-half stone.

Shortly after she started her weight loss, her mum was diagnosed with breast cancer.

After a brave battle for two years, Helen succumbed to the illness in 2014.

Kay will now take on the Dream Challenges Woman v Cancer Ride India challenge to raise money for Breast Cancer Care, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action.

Across five days she will tackle 400km of rural roads in Rajasthan alongside 90 other women. She set off on the challenge on Tuesday.

Kay, a Slimming World Consultant, said: “I started cycling along the sea wall at Maylandsea and then braved in on to the main roads of the Dengie.

“After my mum was diagnosed with breast cancer I started taking my riding more seriously and rode in a number of charity rides raising money for Cancer Research and Breast Cancer Care.”

After reading about the India challenge 18 months ago she decided it was time for a bigger test. She has spent the summer completing training rides ahead of the challenge.

“I’ve found a love of cycling. I can’t believe I’m going to be going to India to take on this amazing challenge,” she said.

“I cannot wait to take on this challenge - the atmosphere will be amazing.

“Achieving this challenge would not had been possible before losing weight.

“I am excited to give something back in memory of my mum as she encouraged me to lose weight and get fit.”

Kay, who has classes in Mayland, Burnham and Maldon, said she hoped the challenge would help raise awareness of cancer and encourage people to lose weight.

She added: “I am happier and healthier. Just making simple changes to the way I shop and cook has helped me lose weight and reduce my chances of developing a range of health problems.”

Kay has already surpassed her fundraising target of £3,500 by reaching more than £4,000. To donate, visit just giving.com/fundraising/Kay-Driscoll4.