Sandi hopes to raise £3,000 to improve the health of women and babies

Axmouth nurse Sandi Nicholls is in training to join a tough women-only cycling challenge in India later this year.

She has responded to a call from leading infertility expert Professor Robert Winston to raise funds to improve the health of women and babies.

The bicycle ride, in October, will cover 350km over five days from Kochi - a major port on the west coast - to Marari.

Professor Winston, chairman of the Genesis Research Trust, said: “Funds raised will support women scientists and clinicians to specialise in research affecting women and babies. With nearly 250 babies dying every week in the UK alone, from complications during pregnancy, our work has never been so essential.”

Sandi said: “With 30 years’ experience of nursing, I have witnessed first hand the sadness, devastation and trauma that these conditions cause to whole families. Despite breakthroughs in medical science, many women’s lives are still devastated by conditions that affect their health or their babies.

“I need to raise a minimum of £3,000 to secure my place and am asking local people, companies and businesses to help. I underwent open heart surgery three years ago and have made a full recovery and training is well under way.”

Sandi is planning fundraising events between now and September - the first being an auction of promises at The Ship Inn, Axmouth, on March 14, at 7.30pm. Promises /donations will be very welcome and anyone wishing to help can call on 01297 625580 or email andimw1@aol.com