A Sutton woman cycled for five days from Portsmouth to Dunkirk in France to join a ceremony commemorating the 70th anniversary of the evacuation of English and French troops last month.

Kristina Bunn, 37, of South Sutton, was one of the 300 cyclists who joined the ride to fundraise for Help for Heroes, a charity that support armed forces.

She said: "My partner and I feel strong ties to the military, with close family members having seen active service, but thankfully coming home safely.

"Sadly, a good friend was not so lucky and lost his life to an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan in 2006."

The trip was a great physical challenge as well as an emotional journey as group explored the tragic battle sites of the First World War, including villages, trenches, underground tunnels, cemeteries, and evacuation grounds.

Reflecting upon her trip, Miss Bunn said that the ceremonies she participated in were the best memories.

She said: “I participated in the wreath laying ceremony at the Canadian memorial in Vimy Ridge, and it is hard to express the feelings that morning - it was a real privilege to be there.”

To sponsor Miss Bunn visit bmycharity.com and search for Kristina Bunn.