TWO brothers are taking on a harsh physical challenge to raise £20,000 in memory of a friend who died from a brain tumour earlier this year.
Kieron and Darrell Hughes, from North Holmwood, will cycle the 500 miles between the Spa motor racing circuit in Belgium and Silverstone in five days this summer.
Joined by friends Paul Taylor and Jon Wilkins – from Sutton and Tadworth respectively – the quartet have taken on the challenge to raise funds for St Raphael's Hospice in Cheam, where 36-year-old Charles Dodson spent his last days.
Holmbury Drive resident Kieron Hughes, 34, told the Advertiser the former estate agent was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour two years ago and had fought bravely before being admitted to the hospice in October.
He died there on January 3, leaving behind his wife Louise and three-year-old daughter Isla.
Mr Hughes said: "We knew this would happen to our friend, but nothing prepared us for what they did.
"St Raphael's were amazing. They enabled us to visit our friend and see him, knowing he was in the best hands.
"He was comfortable, surrounded by friends and received amazing care.
"Our intentions are to raise money and awareness for St Raphael's as places like this hospice rely on funding."
The quartet, who have named their cycling team Four Charlie, hope to begin their journey on June 23 with a lap of the track at Spa.
They then aim to arrive at Silverstone in time for the British Grand Prix on June 28.
The route was chosen in tribute to Formula One enthusiast Mr Dodson, who was also a big fan of cycling – unlike his friends.
Self employed builder Mr Hughes, who is now in intensive training, said: "We are by no means cycling enthusiasts or even remotely fit.
"We just have to look at bikes and are out of breath.
"It's going to be a struggle, but we're excited about the challenge."
Follow the team's training progress on Twitter by following @four_charlie or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FourCharlie
To donate to the total, visit www.justgiving.com/fourcharlie or text "chas76" to 70070.
