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21 May 2010

Mother- of- two cycles around the world for 2 years for charity

The epic journey began in May 2008 and came to an end last Saturday when Astrid Domingo Molyneux finally returned to her hometown in Bristol after riding through 28 different countries in 2 years.

Countries visited during her tour included India, Tibet, Nepal, Jordan, Oman, the US and Japan. Starting from her home parish of Almondsbury she crossed many ferries, battled with adverse weather conditions and overcame various personal challenges to touch the finish line. In total, she rode 20,000 mile and had no back up team.

Her goal was to raise awareness of the work of two charities, Leprosy Mission and the Deaf Studies Trust. Some of Astrid's achievement during the trip includes riding through several Christian historical sites such as the pilgrimage routes Santiago in Spain, St Peter's square in Rome, Alexandria in Egypt, Jordan and Jerusalem.

Astrid Domingo Molyneux said: "The journey was very emotional, and I had to deal with some very tough moments on the road. I didn't do the ride to raise money for the charities but rather to focus on raising the profile of both of the charities and the good work they do. Leprosy has a stigma attached to it, but it can be cured by a course of multiple drug therapy."

Also, during the cycle trip she visited several hospitals where she met lepers and deaf people in various hospitals which include the Shahdara hospital in Delhi, and Anandaban hospital in Kathmandu.

At 53, Astrid has two children, she is an administration manager at the University of Bristol and an active member of St Mary's church, where she worships. She was welcomed home by her family and a crowd of well-wishers including her MP, Professor Steve Webb who gave her official support for the venture. Her travel journal is online at www.cyclingfullcircle.com.