Inspired by her 14-year-old sister’s battle with a brain tumour, teacher Alison Bell has set herself a series of sporting challenges.

Her aim is to raise cash for the Leeds-based Brain Tumour Research and Support Group, which has supported her sister, Rachael, and her family, who live in Lothersdale.

Alison, who teaches at Embsay School and lives in the village, says pupils have also shown great enthusiasm to take part.

Her partner – professional cyclist Pete Williams, who rides for Haribo-Beacon, is planning to get involved in some of the fundraising, especially those linked to cycling. Alison, 26, intends launching her ten-event challenge in March to coincide with Brain Tumour Awareness Week. She is already lined up to tackle an Ironman challenge in Nottingham, which involves swimming 2.4 miles, biking 112 miles and running a marathon, all in 24 hours.

She is also aiming to swim Coniston water in the Lake District, a distance of 5.25 miles, and hopes to take part in the Etape du Dales and the Three Peaks.

To take advantage of people’s enthusiasm for the Tour de France visiting Craven, she is also hoping to cycle the distance of the opening stage on an exercise bike and is encouraging others to join her.

“I want to improve people’s awareness of those suffering from brain tumours and raise money for the charity, which has been a big support to us,” said Alison. I’d like to get the schoolchildren involved. They are very enthusiastic. I’m thinking of having a hat day and a zumbathon they can take part in.”