THREE friends are preparing to embark on a 300-mile cycle ride to raise funds for three charities.

Novice cyclists Leah Malbon, Karen Jutson and Pauline Hughes will ride from London to Paris in September.

Leah, of Rhyl, and Karen and Pauline, from Prestatyn, came up with the testing challenge following a “couple of glasses” of wine one evening.

The women, who became friends seven years ago after having children, are now dedicated to the cause and have already started their training.

Money raised will be donated to the diabetes unit at Glan Clywd Hospital through Diabetes UK; the special care baby unit (SCBU) at Glan Clywd Hospital via Awyr Las; and the Fiona Elizabeth Agnew Trust (FEAT).

To kick off their fundraising, a charity ball is being held on Friday, February 9 at the Oriel House Hotel in St Asaph.

A charity auction will take place on the night, hosted by former Wales rugby union star Rupert Moon.

Pauline, 42, explained that her best pal was involved in FEAT, which was set up in memory of a friend of hers, Dr Fiona Agnew who died along with her stillborn daughter, Isla, after contracting sepsis while pregnant in August 2012.

“The profile of sepsis needs to be raised,” said Pauline. “I’ve talked to others and it is scary how many people have been affected.

“This has further spurred me on to raise as much money as possible.”

Karen, who worked on the SCBU, added: “The joy I had helping precious babies and meeting their families was incredibly fulfilling.

“Back in February 2015, I witnessed first-hand the huge campaign that we fought here in North Wales against the downgrade of the maternity services.

“Now with the new SuRNICC (sub-regional neonatal intensive care centre) opening soon at Glan Clwyd Hospital, together with developing scientific advances, the future for our area looks extremely bright.

“I would very much like to contribute to the centre by donating the funds I raise so the centre can continue to provide the best possible care.”

Leah, who in 2014 took part in Ride the Night in London, put forward the London to Paris cycle challenge idea to her friends.

Initially, Pauline and Karen dismissed the idea, but after taking time to think, they agreed and it wasn’t long until they fell in love with road biking.

Leah, 42, who is raising money for Diabetes UK, said: “My motivation is based on a promise.

“My younger brother, Stephen, was diagnosed with type one diabetes at the age of three. He is now 34.

“On a recent occasion, when Stephen’s health was particularly bad, I told him that the next challenge I did would be for him.

“When this popped up, 300 miles seemed a pretty decent challenge.”

To donate, go online www.justgiving.com/fundraising/leah-malbon1; www.justgiving.com/fundraising/karen-jutson or www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paulinehughes300miles

To buy tickets to the ball, visit buytickets.at/thetourdetrio

The women are looking for sponsorship. To offer help, email thetourdetrio@gmail.com