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Claire's a shining example as she trains for epic cycle ride

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The sun shone on more than 100 cyclists who joined paralysed mum Claire Lomas during a training session around Rutland Water yesterday.

The 32-year-old was delighted so many of her friends and supporters managed to get on their bikes to raise money for two spinal injury charities.

Originally, she had hoped more than 60 people from across the East Midlands would join her on the 18-mile training ride in preparation for her 400-mile cycle tour of England.

Claire, from Eye Kettleby, near Melton, who was left paralysed from the waist down following a riding accident in May 2007, said: "I was worried that the cold weather and the bitter wind of the past weeks would put people off.

"But the sun smiled on us and we had a great time. There were more than 100 people who took part.

"I had lots of people from Nottingham Trent University who came along and who made it a great day. The course was quite flat and there was no wind."

Everyone who went on the ride donated at least £5, which will be shared between the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation and Spinal Research.

Claire said: "I have no idea how much was raised but one of my friends did very well and raised £500 in sponsorship on her own."

The proceeds will go towards a bid to raise £100,000 for Spinal Research, which is working to develop treatments for people such as Claire who have suffered severe injuries.

Already, more than £22,000 has been pledged on her Just Giving page.

Claire, who completed the London Marathon wearing a special suit in 17 days last year, sets off on her 400-mile trip visiting schools in a few weeks.

She said she was undertaking the ride in memory of Catherine Kouam, who suffered a similar injury to her in 2010 and who contacted her via Claire's website.

Claire said: "I visited her in hospital and we became friends. Sadly, Catherine died on August 26 last year due to complications.

"She will be missed by so many and I want to do this bike ride in memory of her. I know she would love to have seen a cure for spinal injuries."

Claire will cycle around England using a specially adapted machine.

During the 20-day trip, she will be joined by celebrities including former Olympic athlete Denise Lewis and rugby international Gethin Jones.

Claire will be meeting youngsters at dozens of schools and talking to them about fighting on through adversity and enjoying an active lifestyle.

If you would like to sponsor Claire on her cycle challenge, text "legs60£3£ to 70070 or visit:

www.justgiving.com/ Claire-Lomas

Claire's a shining example as she trains for epic cycle ride


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