TV DOCTOR Dawn Harper is challenging people to turn those Christmas pounds into sterling.

Dr Dawn, who lives in Bisley, is taking part in a 100km cycling challenge and is appealing for others to join her.

The 100km Harvey 100 Star Cycle Challenge on Sunday, April 27, will raise money for National Star at Ullenwood, near Cheltenham.

Dr Dawn knows first hand how important it is to give young people with disabilities the best start in life.

The race is named in honour of Dawn’s son, Harvey, 17, who has cerebral palsy.

Harvey attends a mainstream school and is taking his A-levels.

He plans to attend university in the autumn.

“Harvey has true grit – as do the students I meet at National Star,” she said.

“What National Star provides them with is the confidence, skills and education to take control of their lives and to make their own decisions, to do the things the rest of us simply take for granted.”

Dawn, who hosts Channel 4’s Embarrassing Bodies, is a keen cyclist.

She took up the sport after a hit-and-run accident in the 2003 left her with a knee injury.

On average she cycles 50-100 miles every week and has taken part in several cycling challenges to Amsterdam, Brussels, and Paris, as well as numerous other rides in the UK.

National Star is a Gloucestershire-based charity working with people with severe disabilities and acquired brain injuries.

Through the charity’s support they access opportunities which improve their life chances and enhance their quality of life.

“I have seen how National Star transforms young people’s lives but they can’t do it without community support,” said Dawn.

The route includes steep climbs at Bisley, Sapperton and Caudle Green, and takes in scenic routes around Kemble, Chedworth, Bibury and Cowley. It costs £20 to register in advance and cyclists are asked to raise a minimum £80.

To register call National Star on 01242 524478 or email fundraising@natstar.ac.uk