Anna Bridle, 48, from Sporle, took on the Spiral to the Summit challenge on Sunday, September 17 on behalf of the Stroke Association and successfully climbed the Swaffham windmill three times - the equivalent of almost 1,000 steps.

She was inspired by her husband, Iain, who had a stroke in September 2015 and was left with weakness in his left-side and difficulties with his balance and vision. Several mini-strokes earlier this year have also left him with speech problems.

'My main reason for doing it for the Stroke Association was to raise as much money and awareness of strokes as I possibly could,' said Mrs Bridle.

'The climb itself didn't faze me as much as I thought, although I had bought a step machine to practise on as we live in a bungalow.

'In total I did three climbs which equates to 305 steps per climb, so in total I did 915 not including coming down. I felt so proud to have completed the challenge, as I initially thought I might have taken on too much but I kept on pushing to the finish.

Mrs Bridle's husband cheered her along as she climbed and while he had some concerns about her safety, she said it won't be the last time that she takes on a big fund raising activity.

'Iain was proud of my achievement but he was worried that I might injure myself by doing too much,' she said. 'My legs were very, very stiff for the next couple of days but it was totally worth it and for such a good cause.

'I'm hopefully going to do a lot more to make people aware of how badly Strokes can affect peoples whole lives and families. I genuinely feel so proud to be able to represent the Stroke Association in West Norfolk and indeed nationally.'

Louise Everett, community and events fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: 'With around 100,000 strokes in the UK each year, it's vital we have people like Anna to help raise vital funds. We're incredibly grateful to Anna for her all of her support.

'At the Stroke Association, we want to be there for everyone affected by a stroke and the funds raised by Anna at her fundraising event will help make this a reality.'

Find out more about the Stroke Association here.