FAMILIES are being urged to get on their bikes to raise vital charity cash for Anna's Hope.
The cycle ride around Rutland Water is being held on Sunday, August 22, by Rob and Carole Hughes, who founded the charity which helps children and young people with brain tumours.
Rob and Carole, who live in Pilsgate, near Barnack, formed the char
ity in memory of their daughter Anna, who died in 2006 aged three years and eight months of a brain tumour. This is the third year they have organised the ride and if the cumulative amount raised in sponsorship is more than £2,500, Rob will donate £1,000 out of his own pocket.
Carole, 49, said: "The charity is really making a difference but we wouldn't be able to do it without people's support so we urge everyone to get involved in the bike ride.
"It is absolutely wonderful for us to know that through the tragic death of our daughter, we are able to give hope to hundreds of children suffering brain tumours. We hope people will get involved to help us make a difference."
Rob, 54, will be taking part along with the couple's daughter Sara, 21, while Carole will be in charge of making sure the event runs smoothly.
Last year's cycle ride attracted about 300 riders and raised about £5,000.
She said: "We really just want to build on the numbers year on year with the aim of making it the best cycle ride in the region.
"It's a good opportunity for families to have fun because there's no time limit while raising money for the charity."
Since the charity was founded it has enabled poorly children to visit Holiday on Ice in Peterborough and meet Olympic ice skater Robin Cousins, as well as set up parents' groups to offer support.
In 2008 Rob and Carole achieved their goal of raising £150,000 to fund a specialist nurse for three years, who is based at Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge.
The couple are also working closely with the NHS to improve the provision of children's neurosurgery across the country.
On the day of the bike ride registration is from 8.30am and cycling is from 9am onwards at Whitwell.
Riders are encouraged to get sponsorship for their efforts. Teams are also urged to enter and everyone who completes the ride will get a medal.
Rutland Cycling is supporting the ride and there will be discounted bike hire for anyone taking part. The firm is also offering an opportunity to win a bike.
To enter the ride fill in the coupon and return it to Anna's Hope, Hunters Hill, Lattimers Paddock, Pilsgate, Lincs, PE9 3HL.
For more information visit www.annashope.co.uk.
