Kenilworth firefighter on the homestretch of her charity challenge

A Kenilworth firefighter is on the homestretch for her charity challenge.

On-call firefighter Alison Insley has been taking on the challenge of cycling 25 miles everyday for the 25 days leading up to her 50th birthday on June 3.

This year will also be 14 years since her mother died - 25 days before her 36th birthday.

Alison is taking on the challenge to help raise money for University College London Amyloidosis Research Fund and The Firefighters Charity in memory of her mother.

She has been completing the challenge using an exercise bike as well as going out cycling.

Tuesday (June 2) will be Alison's last day of her challenge.

Alison said: "On Saturday the usual squash crew came to support me on the static bike on my driveway.

"They created an amazing early birthday atmosphere as we finished in style with balloons, party poppers and confetti, along with a homemade birthday cake.

"On Sunday a couple of my fellow Coventry Ambassadors and other volunteers came along to support me, I thought it was an opportunity to celebrate the start of volunteers week.

"Today (Monday), I took my final road ride out to Meridan, and I also visited the National Cyclists Memorial.

"I have now raised just over £3,000 with one more day to go.

"The final ride will be on the static bike on my driveway, so that some family, friends, neighbours and colleagues have the opportunity of watching me through the final finish line.

"Thank you to everyone for their continuous support."

Alison's mother, Bimla Nakra, was born in India and came to England in 1965, she settled in Coventry around 1967.

Bimla died on May 9 2006 of Amyloidosis, which is a progressive disease which is caused by a build up of amyloid protein fibres in tissues and organs throughout the body which eventually causes vital organ failure.

Although treatable, the illness has no cure.

Alison added: "I want to raise money for the hospital that cared for my mother during her illness (UCL) and for the Firefighters Charity who provide mental, physical and social support to UK fire fighters in need, through the coronavirus crisis and beyond."

To donate go to: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AlisonInsley