A woman is gearing up for a cycling challenge in honour of her father who suffered a severe stroke before dying of cancer.

Beth Farrar, 30, of Friern Barnet, will take part in the Thames Bridges Bike Ride on October 1 for the Stroke Association.

She is riding in honour of her father Michael, who had a severe stroke in 2001, aged 56, before being diagnosed with cancer six years later until he sadly died in 2007.

Ms Farrar said: "My Dad was such a fun and energetic man. His stroke took everything from him; his independence and self-confidence. He was left with a speech difficulty called aphasia, and could only say ‘yes’ and ‘no’.

"We’re such a close family unit, and my Mum did everything to make sure that we stayed that way after my Dad’s stroke. "We played games together, went on holidays and spent as much time as we could smiling."

The ride begins at Kings House Sports Ground in Chiswick, continuing for either eight, 35 or 55 miles, corssing the famous Thames Bridge along the way.

Ms Farrar wanted to ensure other know the signs of a stroke and raise awareness, adding that there is not a day that goes passed where she does not think of her father.

To sponsor Beth, please visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/beth-farrar