Jane Tomlinson has run a series of gruelling races

Mrs Tomlinson, 40, has already raised more than �450,000 for charity by taking part in a number of gruelling events including two marathons.

But on 3 May she will start her biggest challenge yet.

She aims to ride a tandem with her brother Luke from St Peter's Square to her home in Rothwell.

They estimate it will take them 35 days to travel the 2,500 miles.

The ride will start in St Peter's Square in Rome

The trek, with no rest days, will have several long stages and will include a ride up the 6,555-foot Mont Ventoux - one of the legendary climbs of the Tour de France.

Mrs Tomlinson is no stranger to cycling.

She and Luke have already completed a 1,060-mile bike ride from John O'Groats to Land's End.

Last month she completed the York half-marathon, only10 days after finishing an intensive course of chemotherapy and there is a possibility she will also run the London marathon on 18 April.

Son's birthday

Mrs Tomlinson's husband, Mike, 42 says she will be away from him and her children Suzanne, 18, Rebecca, 15, and Steven, six for a long time.

"She's spending 35 days away from all of us when in a short time she'll be leaving us forever, and she's doing this to help others," he said.

"Rebecca is doing her GCSEs in May and she'll miss Steven's birthday. It's a very high price to pay."

Mrs Tomlinson said. "It's quite a high price for me to pay being away from my family. I'll miss Steven's birthday, but hopefully it will be worthwhile."