AN Ealing man is taking on the Stroke Association’s Escape the City Bike Ride this Sunday to mark a year since he survived a life-changing stroke.

In June 2017, Mike Townend was getting ready for work when he felt a tingling sensation in his left hand and suddenly realised he couldn’t move his left leg.

Mike, 59, said: “It was a really odd feeling and, to be honest, I never thought I was having a stroke. When the paramedics arrived at my home, it was the first time I’d heard the word ‘stroke’, and just couldn’t believe it.”

Mike spent two weeks recovering fat Charing Cross Hospital, and then spent a further eight weeks learning how to walk and use his left arm and hand at Clayponds Rehab Hospital.

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“Cycling for me was a way of life before my stroke,” he said. “Every day, I rode 20 miles to and from work, and I enjoyed cycling in my spare time to get around London.

“There were many things that my stroke took from me, but I couldn’t let cycling be one of them.

“Escape the City Bike Ride marks a year for me since leaving hospital. It’s great to give something back to the Stroke Association, and to help other stroke survivors.”

Escape the City Bike Ride starts at Chiswick and has a circular route. Participants can take part in a 30- 60- or 80-mile route, leading cyclists along Surrey's scenic country lanes.

www.justgiving.com/miketownend