KATE Holland, a 28-year-old from Tintagel, has recently touched down on UK soil after completing a harrowing five-day cycle in sweltering heat at the famous Death Valley National Park in Nevada, USA.

Kate embarked on the challenge to raise money for two charities close to her heart — Macmillan Cancer Support and Bodmin Hospital.

Through months of fundraising at home — including a charity spin class session, a bingo evening and a bake sale — Kate was finally able to get the plane to America, welcomed by the sweltering heat of Nevada’s Death Valley.

From November 12 to 19, Kate cycled an astounding total of 300 miles through the Death Valley National Park in Nevada, USA, to raise funds for Bodmin Hospital and Macmillan Cancer Support.

Kate told the Post: “The challenge was particularly difficult. We spent five days cycling through 30 degree heat and battling steep gradients. However, the scenery was breathtaking.

“Death Valley was a place where my father, Brian Holland — who passed away in October 2015 — very much wanted to visit, so it was very special to be there in his place.”

When asked about the physicality of the challenge, Kate said: “It was definitely my biggest physical challenge by far! This was the first kind of challenge I have ever done, so yes.”

Kate said one of the highlights of her trip was being part of a great team of people, adding: “We had a really great group of people taking part, of all mixed abilities, but everyone was so supportive of everyone else. Plus three really great guides made the challenge both fun and safe!

“The scenery was a highlight, as it was absolutely beautiful there, and also getting through day four, which was the hardest day — we were cycling against 45mph winds with 60mph gusts!”

Kate’s cycle was completely self-funded, meaning every penny raised over the last few months has been donated to her chosen charities. The total amount raised currently stands at £2,400, and last minute donations can be made by visiting http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/KateHolland22.

Kate said: “I feel really proud of myself for completing the challenge. It was really tough, but also such an amazing experience. I’m really pleased I got to see Death Valley, as it was somewhere my dad really wanted to see. I also feel very humbled and grateful for all the support I’ve received, as well as the many donations that will go straight to Bodmin Hospital and Macmillan.

“Thank you again to everyone that has donated or supported me throughout the past few months. The encouragement from everyone back at home really helped to push me through the challenge.”