Two consultant surgeons from Benenden Hospital swapped their theatre scrubs for cycling gear over the weekend to take part in the London to Brighton Bike Ride to raise money for charity. Gynaecologist Simon Edmonds and Ear Nose and Throat specialist Andrew Meredith raced the 54 mile course in aid of the British Heart Foundation after weeks of rigorous training.

Simon, who lives with his GP wife and two sons in Hawkhurst, completed the course in four hours despite recently pulling a hamstring doing a wheelbarrow race at his son’s school’s St George’s Day celebrations.

“Apart from a couple of steep hills, including the infamous Ditchling Beacon, it was downhill most of the way” said Simon, who raised £1,600.

Herstmonceux-based Andrew crossed the finishing post in seven hours. On a well-earned day off on Monday, he said: ”It was a great day. Undertaking this with Simon but also with my son Toby on Father’s Day made it very special. I can also sit comfortably today so that’s good and I will happily have another go in the future.”

Benenden Hospital staff have a tradition of putting themselves through their paces to raise money for charity. Earlier this year consultant gynaecologist Mohamed Hefni took part in the London Marathon at the age of 60, completing the course in five hours, five minutes and 22 seconds, and raising £3,000 for the Garwood Foundation. Next year several staff plan to take part in the London Marathon.

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