A paralysed mother who completed the London marathon in a bionic suit will join in the biggest event in the Bushy Park calendar.

Claire Lomas became the first person to finish a marathon wearing a robotic suit when she crossed the finish line after 17 gruelling days last year.

Having raised more than £200,000 she hopes to repeat her fundraising efforts for two spinal research charities in her latest challenge, a 400-mile cycle around Britain on a specially-modified bike.

The former event rider, who lost the use of her legs during a freak horse riding accident in 2007, set off from Nottingham on April 22 and will stop off on her three-week journey to give motivational talks.

The inspirational campaigner will be escorted by members of the Horse Rangers’ Association in a colourful procession held for the annual Chestnut Sunday celebration in Bushy Park on May 12.

Two of the seven squadrons of 400 children at the Horse Rangers are linked to Riding for Disabled and they have invited Lomas to give an inspirational talk on the main stage at 1.30pm.

The young riders and their mascot Shetland pony, Cameo, will put on a musical performance at 2pm and families are invited to tuck into picnics in the park to the backdrop of music provided by local bands.

Crowds of people are expected to turn out for the parade, which celebrates the horse chestnut tree blossom and will feature vintage bicycles, military vehicles, marching bands and motorcyclists.

The procession down Chestnut Avenue will leave from Teddington Gate at 12.30pm and arrive at Diana Fountain, where visitors can enjoy a traditional fairground, stalls and historical re-enactments.

Chestnut Avenue will be closed to through traffic from 12.15pm to 1.30pm and car parks will also be closed during this period.

To find out more, visit claireschallenge.co.uk.