The early death of a much-loved friend has sparked a couple’s desire to take on a cycling challenge in her honour.

Ian Duke, 51, and his wife, Julie, from East Molesey, will take part in the Prudential RideLondon at the weekend.

The pair were due to complete the route last year before Mrs Duke had a bike accident and their friend Michelle Cowell, 43, was diagnosed with cancer.

Mr Duke said: "It wasn't too long before she was admitted to the Princess Alice Hospice, who cared for her with great empathy and made her final days as comfortable as they could be.

"Michelle passed away on August 11, the day after we should have been doing the ride."

But the loss has pushed the couple to re-enter the race and even raise money for the hospice in her memory.

Mr Duke, who works for Sky, said: "It was tough at first for Julie to get back on her bike with the painful memory of the fall and the emotions that connected it with our close friend’s illness and huge loss."

Following on from some training the pair look forward to the event on August 2.

To donate visit justgiving.com/Ian-Duke5.