A NOVICE cyclist has set herself a major challenge – pedalling 2,000 miles to Turkey.

Laura Ricketts, 26, sets off on her solo journey to Istanbul on Saturday to raise money for the Thai-registered charity, the Karen Hilltribes Trust.

The charity works with people in northern Thailand to improve health, education and opportunities for generating income.

Laura, who grew up in Wombleton, near Pickering, said she became inspired to raise money for the York-based charity after working in the Philippines and seeing firsthand the challenges people face.

“I was shocked to see the inequality and how the people there were living with so little and this charity works to address that in Thailand, so I really wanted to support them and to support what they do,” she said.

However, part from a 150-mile coast-to-coast bike ride over 48 hours, Laura said she has not done much training or cycling, but is trying to keep fit and healthy.

“I have been quite nervous, but now I am really excited,” she said.

“I broke my ankle last year and couldn’t really do anything for a while and that really made me want to do something different and push myself while I can.

“It has been quite hard to plan the route and I have a broad idea of where I will stop, but I have given myself 60 days to complete it, with one day off every week.”

Laura will finish her journey in Istanbul where she will be met by friends and enjoy a rest. To support her visit justgiving.com/yorktoturkeybybicycle