An Attleborough woman was joined by her boyfriend as she biked 100 miles in just seven hours in aid of blind ex-servicemen and women.

Aimee Bickel, 22, and her boyfriend Jake Grossman, who is a trooper in the Household Cavalry, rode from London to Surrey as part of the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100.

Miss Bickel said: 'The biggest challenge was, without a doubt, Leith Hill. It was horrendous and earlier than I expected in the ride. My legs were like jelly. Box Hill felt like a breeze after that, but difficult nonetheless.'

The pair took on the challenge for Blind Veterans UK and have so far raised an impressive £1,293.

They were inspired to help the charity after meeting a former royal engineer who is a fundraiser and after reading about soldiers who had experienced life-changing injuries.

Miss Bickel said: 'I've read about the work Blind Veterans UK does and the impact it has on individuals and families – I loved riding for the charity and I'd do it all again in a heartbeat.'

Mr Grossman, also 22, joined the Household Cavalary at 16 and has taken part in ceremonial duties including Trooping the Colour.

He said: 'I know people whose lives have been drastically affected through past and current conflicts and it's reassuring to know that there are organisations, such as Blind Veterans UK, out there who can help.'

They tackled the London ride after Miss Bickel's father, Dave, completed the same challenge last year.

Ex-soldier Mr Bickel, 50, joined the couple on this year's feat and has topped their total donations up to more than £2,000.

Miss Bickel said: 'Seeing my dad cross the finish line last year was an emotional moment for me.

'Cycling is something my whole family does together and we've grown closer because of it.'

To sponsor the family visit www.justgiving.com/teams/BVUKRideLondon

For information on the charity, visit www.blindveterans.org.uk/ridelondon