THE London to Brighton Bike Ride is more poignant for employees of a Watford garage this year.

The annual event, being held on Sunday, June 15, raises thousands of pounds for the British Heart Foundation.

A team from Watford Jaguar, in Lower High Street, will be pedalling harder than ever for the charity because warranty clerk, Mrs Elaine McLeod, has just returned to work after having bypass surgery.

It will be the fourth time team leader Mr Andy Foster has completed the 60 mile course which begins in Clapham Common.

The 45-year-old, veteran of three races with two different garages, said about ten of his fellow employees out of a total of 30 staff are taking part.

He said: "We threw the idea around and were surprised by the response and thought let's do it."

The team has been training and cyclists as young as 14 are going along for the day.

Mr Foster said: "We have been doing a bit of training, but it is not too bad, you don't have to be super fit.

"There are lots of places you can stop on the way.

"And the atmosphere carries people along.

"It is a very social occasion."

Anyone that would like to sponsor the efforts being made by Watford Jaguar can telephone them directly on 01923 211660.

May 29, 2003 18:00