A BLIND cyclist is embarking on the ride of her life to raise cash for Guide Dogs Cymru.

Penny Davies, owner of guide dog JayJay, will tackle some of the toughest terrain in South Wales on a tandem piloted by her husband Michael.

The couple, from Burton, have put in plenty of legwork as they prepare for the Velothon Wales event, with up to 15,000 riders expected to take part.

"We've reached speeds of 44mph downhill," said Penny.

The day-long event starts at Cardiff Castle on Sunday, June 14, and involves cycling 140km on traffic-free roads, taking in the legendary Tumble climb in the Brecon Beacons.

"I heard about the event and entered without telling Michael," said Penny.

"Luckily he loves cycling and is really looking forward to it.

"Years ago, when I had better vision, we used to cycle on separate bikes to places like Land's End, clocking up quite a bit of mileage.

"Riding tandem, I hang on and hope for the best, but I have quite good balance and complete faith in Michael.

"He tells me when he is going to brake or if there's a sharp bend coming up.

"It's a bit of a running commentary but it can be hard to hear if there's wind or traffic noise.

"Luckily, he has a really loud voice!

"It's my job to give the hand signals, and he has to warn me when he is changing gear so I know to ease off the pedals."

Penny hopes to raise £500 in sponsorship, which will take her personal fundraising total for Guide Dogs Cymru to £2,000.

Previous exploits have included the New Year's Day Swim at Saundersfoot, with JayJay in tow.

She said: "I must be barking mad! But I love cycling and my life would be so different without JayJay.

"He has given me the confidence to go out independently and is an amazing dog.

"Anything I can raise that will help Guide Dogs to support others is worth every ounce of pedal power."

You can sponsor her at www.justgiving.com/Penny-Davies3/