Clare Davis was 15 the last time she rode a bicycle.

Two and a half inch metal rods inserted in her spine during a back operation saw to that.

But now, 13 years, on she’s returning to the saddle for an 8.8-mile sponsored bike ride for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The 27-year-old, of Plover Road, Minster, was inspired to get on her bike again after watching a TV programme featuring a young boy fundraising for the victims of the Haiti earthquake.

She said: “I thought 'I could do something like that’.”

Clare will be joined by her brother, Stuart, also from Minster, and a group of friends for the ride from the Rose and Crown pub, Leysdown, to the Albion pub, Bluetown, on Sunday, June 6.

“It’s not going to be a race,” she said. “It’s going to take us about four hours, a nice, slow ride to enjoy the countryside.”

Clare has chosen Macmillan Cancer Support for the care its Macmillan nurses provided prior to her grandfather’s death from lung cancer in 2007 and the support they gave his widow after his death.

“The nurses are amazing and I decided to do something for them as a mark of respect and gratitude for all they did during that tough time,” she added.

Clare’s return to the saddle has begun with gentle rides with her eight-year-old son, Jordan Willis, to nearby parks.

“It was a bit painful to start with and I was a bit shaky, but I am feeling more confident now,” she said.

But she admits to being apprehensive about the day. “I am very nervous but I know I can do it and I know the money is going to a good cause.”

Clare, who works as a cleaner, hopes to raise £500.

Anyone wishing to sponsor her can call her on 07779 518190.