A FAMILY friend of an Oswestry girl receiving support from Hope House in Morda is set to ride nearly 300 miles across Europe to raise money for the hospice.

John Norris, 42, is a novice cyclist from Braintree, in Essex, but will be riding from the UK to Bruges in Belgium over four days from Thursday, June 23 to Sunday, June 26 to raise money for the hospice, which cares for Anona Bowen, daughter of his friends Mike and Alice.

Three-year-old Anona has a rare genetic condition called Miller Deiker Syndrome, which affects the brain, and both she and her parents Mike and Alice from Oswestry have been receiving support from the dedicated staff at Hope House.

When looking to take on a challenge for charity John asked Alice and Mike which charity they would like to raise money for.

“As soon as I asked, they instantly said Hope House,” said John.

“The support they have been given has been incredible, and I am honoured to take on this challenge and support the hospice.”

This is the third time John, who lives in Braintree, has tried to take on the challenge which was originally planned before the pandemic began, and he has already raised close to £5,000.

“I’m no cyclist and this is going to be quite the challenge for me,” said John.

“I used to be a runner, but now have bad knees, but wanted to do something amazing like this before I get too old.

“I’ve been training hard and increasing the distance week on week, but haven’t actually done the length of ride I’ll be doing in four consecutive days before.”

Mike and Alice said: “We are truly grateful and proud of John, firstly for dedicating this ride to Anona, and secondly for the kindness he has shown us as a family.

“We couldn’t think of a more worthy cause than Hope House, as it is close to our hearts, and also helping raise awareness for Anona and other children with similar diagnosis.”

Lynsey Kilvert, fundraiser at Hope House added: “We wish John all the luck for his challenge and will be cheering him on.

“More than 80 per cent of the money we need to provide vital care and support for children like Anona comes from incredible people like John.”

Sponsor John at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/john-norris9 or if you would like to cycle and support Hope House then why not join its Cycle Challenge in August at www.hopehouse.org.uk/cycle