Bill Griffin, from Watling Road, Norwich will be getting in the saddle alongside hundreds of participants at this year’s Norwich 50/100 mile ride on Sunday 6th June to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.

Bill, 45, works for Cycles UK and is a keen cyclist; he is also a heart patient and has survived three heart attacks in as many years. It was 2007 when Bill suffered his first heart attack at only 43, he recalls:

”I had been suffering from a virus which turned into pneumonia and brought on a heart attack. When the doctors investigated they told me I needed 2 stents fitted. Within just a few weeks I suffered another heart attack and had to have another stent implanted. I was doing ok and by 2008 my wife and I were off on holiday to Antigua. But three weeks after our holiday in November 2008 I had my 3rd heart attack. This time the damage meant I needed open heart surgery and I underwent a double bypass.”

Eighteen months on and Bill is fighting fit again. He will be taking on the Norwich 100 mile ride on Sunday 6th June. He added:

”I was never scared, I have worked in first aid for many years so I knew when I was having a heart attack but I never felt I was going to die. I am back doing what I love best; I am cycling all the time, back on track and feeling fine. I cannot wait to take on the Norwich 100 miles and try and complete the ride in 5 hours.”

If anyone would like to support Bill they can sponsor him at www.justgiving.com/billgriffin Cycles UK will be supporting the event and you can visit the store to find out more and to get some further inspiration from Bill!

The Norwich 50/100 starts from Norwich City centre in the Cathedral grounds, participants can choose from two routes, both providing fantastic views of pretty Norfolk villages and quiet country roads. Both routes head north to Reepham, the 50 mile riders then loop back past Blickling Hall while the 100-milers head up to the coast and then east taking in the broads before returning to the finish in the Cathedral grounds.

By putting your pedal power into action and taking part in the Norwich Bike Ride, which aims to raise over £65,000 you will help the BHF save and improve the lives of the millions of men, women and children affected by heart disease.

Tacye Blest, Regional Events Organiser said:

“The Norwich Bike Ride is a challenging and popular event, which promises to be a truly memorable day for all who take part. We are urging the people of Norfolk to get on their bikes and sign up, all funds raised help ensure the BHF can continue its vital and lifesaving work.”
We strongly recommend you pre-register to avoid disappointment. The entry fee is £17, to register, visit www.bike-events.com or call the events hotline on 0808 100 2109 or eastevents@bhf.org.uk