A SON who suffered four heart attacks in a week after his mum died has taken on the challenge of a lifetime.

Colin McGlachie was one of 500 British Heart Foundation champions who completed a 100 mile bike ride.

He helped to raise £250,000 for vital research into improving diagnosis and treatments of inherited heart conditions.

The Prudential Ride London-Surrey 100 saw tens of thousands of cyclists set off from Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and wind their way through the Surrey countryside.

Eight years ago, after his mum died from a heart attack, Colin himself suffered a series of heart attacks over a seven day period, leaving him incredibly ill.

Colin’s first heart attack happened when he was out for a walk, the second when he was on his bike, the third whilst driving and the fourth at home.

The attacks left him feeling breathless and with a tight chest, but it was not until the fourth one he realised how serious these pains were and he needed medical help.

He took himself to A&E whilst having a heart attack where the doctor told him he was lucky to survive.

Colin, 57, from Colchester, believes what saved him was his passion for cycling. It had made him fit enough to survive the heart attacks and recover.

He said: “Taking on the ride was a truly phenomenal experience. The sense of comradery amongst the cyclists was so uplifting, especially up the more difficult hills, and I loved spotting the red jerseys of other BHF riders along the way.

“I was pretty tired towards the end but the incredible views of London and the excitement coming from the crowds made for an exhilarating atmosphere which carried me across the finish line.

“It feels amazing to know my fundraising efforts and the time and commitment that went into my training will help the BHF to beat heartbreak from inherited heart conditions.”

Money raised by Team BHF will go to the Miles Frost Fund.

Liam O’Reilly, programme lead at the foundation, said: “We’re so grateful to Colin and the tremendous fleet of British Heart Foundation riders who have travelled from different corners of the country. “Thanks to the will and dedication of each and every BHF champion we will be able to fund the rollout of even more genetic testing for families at risk of inherited heart conditions and support vital research into improving diagnosis and treatments of deadly inherited heart conditions.”