A YOUNG woman who has lost more than four-and-a-half stones through diet and exercise celebrated her new zest for life with a charity fitness challenge.

Keely Madgin, from Langley Moor, near Durham City, cycled 100km on an exercise bike in just over two-and-a-half hours and has raised more than £500 for Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice in Middlesbrough.

The 26-year-old vision therapist was supported by friends and family throughout the challenge, which took place at Lifestyle Fitness in Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre on Monday (March 30).

Miss Madgin said she hoped her achievement would inspire other people trying to lose weight or improve their fitness and is already planning her next challenge.

She said: “One year ago I would never have been able to cycle 100km in two-and-a-half hours.

"The best I would have been able to do is eat 100 cupcakes.

“The best thing about today was the support I received. Friends and relatives took time off work to come and cheer me on and my partner ran alongside me on the treadmill for 11km to help me through it.”

To sponsor Miss Madgin visit justgiving.com/Keely-Madgin1