A team of four snow queens from Teddington will take to the streets of London for the 100km Nightrider cycle challenge in aid of Princess Alice Hospice.

Charlotte Duff, 48, Kate Packwood, Sally King and Cathy Woodall, all 49, were ready to start their training in January, but the bitter winter weather got in their way.

As the blizzards came, the team were determined not to let it get in their way and their first training ride became an eight mile walk through snow drifts, which was where the Snow Queens were born.

The ladies are no strangers to long distance cycles, having completed the Capital to Coast challenge last year which saw them cycle from London to Brighton.

Ms Duff said: “We are all really excited to be part of Nightrider and it is nice to know that Tim, a fundraiser from the hospice, is putting his money where his mouth is and joining us for the cycle.

“Our training is going to plan so far and no injuries to date.

“It will be quite a challenge for us to cycle overnight, particularly with my fear of going downhill, but with Cathy's chatting, Sally's midget gems supply and Kate's mechanical skills, we should be OK.”

The team have to raise £700 between them to take part. To sponsor, visit justgiving.com/snowqueens.