Kate ScotterA Norwich family man who has survived three heart attacks is set to cycle 100 miles to raise money for charity.Kate Scotter

A Norwich family man who has survived three heart attacks is set to cycle 100 miles to raise money for charity.

Bill Griffin, from Watling Road, off Salhouse Road, will be getting in the saddle alongside hundreds of cyclists at this year's annual Norwich 100 mile ride to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.

The 45-year-old, who works for Cycles UK in the city centre, has survived three attacks in as many years - and now aims to complete the ride on June 6 in just five hours and raise as much money as he can.

Mr Griffin, who lives with his partner Tracy and has a 23-year-old daughter Kayleigh, said: 'I love cycling anyway and I wanted to give something back.

'I've benefited from all the research that's gone into heart disease over the past years and it's nice to give something back, it's something I can do.'

The father-of-one suffered his first heart attack when he was 43. He had been suffering from a virus which turned into pneumonia and brought on the heart attack.

He then had the second just a few weeks later. The third was in 2008 just three weeks after he had enjoyed a holiday in Antigua. That time, the damage meant he needed a double bypass.

Mr Griffin said: 'I was never scared - I have worked in first aid for many years so I knew when I was having a heart attack but I never felt I was going to die.

'I am back doing what I love best - I am cycling all the time, back on track and feeling fine. I cannot wait to take on the Norwich 100 miles and try and complete the ride in five hours.'

The Norwich 100 starts from Norwich city centre in the Cathedral grounds. Cyclists can choose from a 50 or 100 mile route.

Both routes head north to Reepham. The 50 mile riders then loop back past Blickling Hall while the 100-milers head up to the coast and then east taking in the Broads before returning to the finish in the Cathedral grounds.

Anyone who wants to sponsor Mr Griffin, should go to www.justgiving.com/billgriffin

Entry fee for the Norwich 50/100 is �17. To register, go to www.bike-events.com, call 0808 100 2109 or email eastevents@bhf.org.uk

Are you taking part in a gruelling challenge against the odds? Call reporter Kate Scotter on 01603 772326 or email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk