A MARATHON cycle challenge has helped raise enough cash to fund a mobile cancer information centre.

University of Hertfordshire marketing executive Julie Grace joined 26 others on a 323-mile sponsored ride from London to Paris, raising �2,500 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The Hatfield woman took part in the four-day trek in memory of her mum Alison, 52, who was diagnosed with untreatable cancer last July and died just weeks later.

Julie said: “In the four days that we were cycling 2,960 people would have been told that they have cancer.

“At the moment the 26 riders who took part in the event with me have raised enough money to fund a mobile cancer information centre [�35,000] which is likely to be visited by an average of 1,321 people.”

As the Welwyn Hatfield Times reported before the event, Julie signed up after her mum was diagnosed, intending that she would be there to meet her under the Eiffel Tower as she finished.

But only weeks after announcing she was going to take part in the ride her mum died.

The cycle was especially poignant as the second day of the sponsored event was the first anniversary of her mum’s death.

The 28-year-old added: “My mum’s first anniversary was extremely hard as every day has been since she was diagnosed but it was an honour to cycle for her.

“Despite all the aches and pain I knew that was nothing compared to her suffering and it only made me more determined to complete the ride and help Macmillan help all affected by cancer.

“The cycle was the most inspiring experience to come out of the worst experience of my life.”

Now Julie has set her sights on a 380-mile coast-to-coast ride across Mexico for the charity.

She said: “London to Paris has given me a real taste for challenges and raising even more money and awareness for Macmillan.

“Setting myself challenges will help keep the memory of my mum alive and helps me remain positive knowing that we are helping others – mum would like that.”