Surbiton couple Abi and Pete Swettenham are raising funds for Express CIC, a local organisation supporting autistic children, young people and their families, by taking on the London to Brighton Bike Ride on 15 September.

Abi and Pete are friends and neighbours of Express CIC's Director and Co-Founder, Tracey Gaggiotti and have always supported Express CIC.

Pete also runs a judo club working with young autistic people.

Speaking about the challenge, Abi said: "I decided I wanted to take on a challenge where I could push myself out of my comfort zone. 55 miles, with a nice climb up Ditchling is definitely a big challenge for me.

"I have been training for a few months, but now the serious work begins."

She continued: "What keeps me motivated in my training is knowing that I am raising money for Express CIC, for Annette [Director and Co-Founder] and Tracey to continue their dedication and support to autistic young people."

Express CIC is a user led voluntary organisation in Kingston, co-founded by Annette Williams and Gaggiotti in 2012.

Williams has a son with autism and Gaggiotti's brother has autism.

Express CIC provides a range of services and support including creative therapy, counselling, drama and social clubs as well as information, events and workshops.

Express CIC is a voluntary-led organisation in Kingston that supports autistic people (Credit: Express CIC)

Gaggiotti said: "We have outgrown our space, and we need a bigger premises in order to further expand our services.

"It is becoming increasingly hard for us to raise funds in the current financial climate, so this really is a lifeline for us."

She continued: "We are seeing more and more autistic young people presenting with additional mental health issues and parents at crisis point.

Our therapists and counsellors provide specialist support, often when statutory services are not meeting the need. Each donation means so much to us and the families we work with.

"As we continue to grow, we are so grateful for the local community supporting and following our journey."

The Swettenham couple said: "We appreciate everything that Tracey and Annette do for our community."

You can help Abi and Pete reach their target on their LocalGiving page.