A CIRENCESTER cyclist has committed to funding five operations for children with cleft palates in developing countries.

Dawn Griffin, 53, completed a four day charity bike ride earlier this summer which saw her cycle for 282 miles from London to Paris.

As someone who doesn’t ride a bike very often, Dawn had to train hard to be prepared for the challenge.

She ate up more than 1,000 miles in the run up to the event, doing 80-mile rides as often as she could to be prepared.

Dawn is a pilates instructor by day, which she said stood her in good stead for the challenge.

“The pilates really helped with making sure my muscles were nice and supple,” she said. “I was a good compliment to the ride.”

Dawn was raising money for Smile Train, a charity that supports children with cleft lips and palates in developing countries, by paying for the operation to have them removed.

She has aimed to fund five operations, costing £750 in total.

Having raised just over £600 through donations, Dawn has committed to funding the remainder out of her own pocket.

“It’s a charity I’ve always supported,” she said.

“Often these children get hidden way, never go to school, and might not have friends or a job.

“They can be treated very badly in a community.

“It’s one simple operation and it makes a huge difference.

“It means people are able to go out and have a life. It’s a lifesaving operation.”

To support Dawn’s fundraising efforts before the appeal finishes, visit justgiving.com/Dawn-Griffin