Maddie, who works in London, said: “After experiencing first hand the difference a charity like this can make to a young person who is newly diagnosed with cancer, I felt like I wanted to do something to help others.”

Training hard for the challenge, Maddie hopes to raise £3,200 for the charity.

She said: “Until now I haven’t been on a bike in five years so it was a challenge in itself but I am really enjoying the training and luckily have good friends who are doing it with me to motivate me.

“I get tired and have had a few ups and downs but I am excited about taking part in the challenge although rather nervous.”

Supporting the work of four special cancer charities, the second Big Cycle Challenge is raising funds for Children with Leukaemia, Lymphoma Association, Marie Curie Cancer Care and Ovarian Cancer Action.

The challenge is to cycle through Rajasthan and it starts with a visit to the Taj Mahal before setting off on a spectacular journey through rural India.

Maddie and her four friends start the Cycle Challenge on March 6 and although the required money has been raised, Maddie says if anyone would like to donate to the charities please contact the charity.

If you would like to support Maddie in her challenge please visit www.justgiving.com/Madeleine-George or by contacting the Lymphoma Association fund-raising team on 01296 619419.