An autistic female cyclist has tackled a 220-mile challenge to support young people with the condition.

Fiona Shorten, 36 and from Earsham, near Bungay, participated in the M2L cycling fundraising event for national charity Ambitious about Autism on June 23.

The challenging route started at dawn from the Rapha Clubhouse in Manchester, weaved through the Pennines and the Chilterns, and concluded at Rapha HQ in North London by evening.

Ambitious about Autism has progressed from a single school to a movement for transformation, striving to secure rights, push for changes, and create opportunities for autistic children and young individuals.

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The M2L event, which started in 2014, was established by Simon Mottram, ex-CEO of cycling lifestyle brand Rapha.

Ms Shorten decided to support Ambitious about Autism as she herself is autistic, receiving her diagnosis a few years ago.

She was initially misdiagnosed with a mental health disorder, a common occurrence among women and girls with autism before obtaining the correct diagnosis later in life.

Ms Shorten said: “It was only when I received my autism diagnosis and discovered my love for cycling that I was able to come off strong anti-depressants and start to understand myself better.

"I want to raise as much awareness as possible, so girls are diagnosed sooner, given the right support and don't have to go through what I did.”

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In addition to her physical efforts, Ms Shorten is also raising funds online through the charity's website, raising £620 so far.

Danae Leaman-Hill, director of external affairs and development, at Ambitious about Autism, said: “We’re thrilled to have had such a dedicated group of cyclists participating in this year’s M2L in aid of our work.

"Completing this ride is no easy feat."

For more on the organisation and to donate visit ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk.