As cyclists across Norfolk prepare for this year's Norwich 100 cycle race in aid of the British Heart Foundation, one man is preparing to increase the challenge even further.

Dean Pointer, pictured, who lives in Fifers Lane, in Hellesdon, will be attempting to ride 200 miles around Norfolk in one day.

There are three routes that will be open for the event on Sunday, May 27, of 100, 50 and 25 miles. They all start from Norwich Cathedral and take in country roads on scenic routes around Norfolk.

The local endurance cyclist completed both the Norwich 100 and the 50 on the same day in around nine hours last year but the 34-year-old is adding on another 50 this year to increase the challenge.

Dean said: 'I think I'll do it but it will be really hard going. It's the mental factor of it because the Norwich 100 is tough anyway, let alone when you are doing it twice. I'm hoping to do it in about 11 hours.'

More than 5,000 cyclists are expected to saddle up and help to raise around �70,000 for the British Heart Foundation on the day.

Event organiser, Tacye Blest, said: 'We are calling on the people of Norwich to get on their bikes and sign up to this fantastic event.

'With three routes to choose from, there is something for everyone, whether you are a serious cyclist or a young rider.

'I guarantee people taking part will have fun so why not sign up today and help us in the fight against the UK's biggest killer.'

Entry is �19.50 for the 100 and 50-mile routes and �15 for the 25-mile route, which covers the cost of running the event.

It is people's sponsorship money that will help the charity try and beat heart disease for good.

Cyclists must be 14 years old to participate in the 50-mile route. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult and cyclists must be 16 to take part in the 100-mile ride.

For more information, contact 0808 100 2109, email eastevents@bhf.org.uk or go to bhf.org.uk/events

Dean is hoping to raise around �500, to donate to his cause, go to www.justgiving.com/Dean-Pointer

He is also planning to take part in the gruelling through-the-night Sundowner event on Saturday, June 23. He and the team he will attempt to double the 70-mile off-road course on the hills of the South Downs as well and are blogging about their efforts, at http://teamcycleaid.blogspot.co.uk

- Are you raising funds for charity? Contact Local Life editor David Freezer on 01603 772418 or alternativel email david.freezer@archant.co.uk