A WORLD champion duathlete and triathlete will be attempting the legendary Tour de France mountain in the Alps three times, by three different routes, in just one day.

Helen Russell, from Evesham, will be taking part in Ultimate Ventoux Challenge to raise money for Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance, the Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance and its sister charity, the national Children’s Air Ambulance.

And other cyclists can join the challenge from June 23 to 25 with the charity paying the air fare and accommodation but participants need to pay £250 registration fee and commit to raise more than £750.

Success in the tough challenge will see riders gain entry to the exclusive Club de Cingles du Mont Ventoux – and this year is extra special as it marks the 50th anniversary since famous cyclist Tommy Simpson died on the mountain during the Tour de France.

The 137km route includes over 4,400 metres of climbing in unpredictable conditions and wind speeds can even reach as much as 200 mph.

The mountain, which is known as the Giant of Provence, is 1,912m high, with long stretches of road at a 10 to 12 per cent gradient.

The 41-year-old, a winner of national, European and world age group championships in triathlon and duathlon, said: "The challenge, whilst tough is achievable for regular recreational cyclists so I would urge people to sign up.

"Also by cycling up Mont Ventoux three times in one day each rider that completes the challenge will receive membership of the prestigious Cingles Club.

"There is plenty of time to train for this amazing challenge.

"The mountain is definitely a bucket list ride which all keen cyclists would like to tick off-so come and join us for the ride of a lifetime.

"Also this year will be a special year to cycle the mountain as it is the 50th anniversary of the death of Tommy Simpson on the mountain so cyclists can be part of the commemorations that mark the anniversary."

She chose to support The Air Ambulance Service charity as some of her cycling club members have been rescued by our crews.

"Also I was surprised to learn that the service doesn't receive any government funding and relies on public donations so I wanted to help raise funds to support this vital service."

To find out more about Ultimate Challenge Ventoux log on to theairambulanceservice.org.uk/fundraising-challenges/ultimate-ventoux-challenge.