A COURAGEOUS schoolboy who died just three days after being diagnosed with leukaemia has inspired a Widnes cyclist to embark on a gruelling challenge.

Dad-of-two Brian Hayes is riding 300 miles from London to Paris to raise funds for the Owen McVeigh Foundation.

The charity was set up by the parents of 11-year-old Owen McVeigh who died in December 2015.

They provide once in a lifetime experiences for terminally ill children, including youngsters from Widnes and Runcorn.

Brian, 41, of Blair Drive, said: “Me and my wife were school friends of Owen’s parents Mark and Joanne.

“They have been extraordinary and I feel it’s only right to show our support.

“They use any funds raised to give local terminally ill children and their families once in a lifetime days, holidays and experiences.”

Brian, a production support specialist for a pharmaceutical company, sets off on his four day marathon on September 13.

The jiu jitsu black belt has already raised £1,300.

Businesses including the Co-op have already pledged support.

“I think if I could really smash it and raise up to £5,000 it would be great. They give children some unbelievable days out.”

Owen’s dad Mark, 42, from Liverpool, said: “Owen never suffered with leukaemia, it was something we didn’t ever know he had.

“We took him to hospital on the Friday night and unfortunately three days later Owen passed away.

“We want to keep his memory alive and provide special occasions that money can’t buy for children with cancer.

“We include the whole family to create a lifetime memory. Seeing the children smile is very rewarding.”

An eight-year-old boy who likes to know how things are made is being taken on a VIP behind the scenes tour of Liverpool John Lennon Airport and a special flight.

A little girl from Runcorn was treated to a family holiday.

A boy from Widnes was taken on a surprise polar express train at Christmas.

To donate visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/brian-hayes-2.