A TEAM of cyclists are riding 220 miles to help children cope with the loss of their loved ones.

The eight friends hope their marathon from Middlesbrough to Runcorn via Cumbria will raise £2,000 for Child Bereavement UK.

The fundraisers are being led by self-employed delivery driver Paul Best who has seen first hand the important work that this Runcorn-based charity does.

The two day ride starts on Saturday, July 1 and finishes the following day near the offices on High Street, where bereaved families receive support.

Paul, 45,  said: ‘We’re hoping to raise £2,000 which could be enough to enable a family to receive a package of face-to-face support for a minimum of 24 months.

“It’s going to be a tough challenge but we've chosen Child Bereavement UK as our charity as I have seen first hand the incredible work they do supporting children, young people and their families through the toughest of times." 

Child Bereavement UK supports families and educates professionals when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying or when a child is facing bereavement.

Child Bereavement UK fundraising and communications officer Seb Farrell said: “This is going to be a really challenging ride for Paul and the team.

“To make things more special we’ve arranged a volunteer thank you event at the Bridgewater Boat Club to cheer the team over the finish line in Runcorn. It’s going to be a great day!”