A CHIPPENHAM woman has organised a 250km cycle event in Ireland in memory of her husband.

Sophie Oldacres, set up Ride4Simon after her husband, Simon died of brain cancer in December 2016, aged 37, and leaving behind their two children, Joseph and Esther.

The two-day cycle will see Mr Oldacres family and friends cycle nearly 250km of County Cork countryside this weekend, a place he spent many happy holidays.

They hope to raise as much money as possible for Brain Tumour Research.

Mrs Oldacres, who works at the University of Bath, said: “Simon was a keen cyclist, and post-diagnosis in 2013, a good cycle was his equivalent to counselling.

"He rode a significant distance to many of his hospital appointments.which was always recorded in the oncologist’s notes because it was so unusual.

“Through high profile examples this year, brain tumours have been in the news, but still not enough is being done through research to make a breakthrough for others facing similar diagnoses to Simon.

“As friends and family of Simon we know how shattering a brain tumour diagnosis is. We really hope this ride can help to make a difference so that one day there might be real hope for others in our position.”

“And building on what we achieved last September with the first Ride4Simon, this year we wanted to head to County Cork, a place that was so special to Simon throughout his life and a fitting venue for this challenge.”

Tim Green, Community Fundraising Manager for the Brain Tumour Research charity said: “We are really grateful to Sophie and the Ride4Simon team for their support and awareness raising and wish them the best of luck in completing their challenge. The money raised will help us in our mission to build a network of experts in sustainable research. We are funding dedicated UK Centres of Excellence where scientists are focused on improving outcomes for patients and, ultimately, finding a cure.

“For too long, brain tumours have been a neglected cancer and we cannot allow this desperate situation to continue. Sadly, less than 20% of those diagnosed with a brain tumour survive beyond five years compared with an average of 50% across all cancers.”

To donate, please visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Ride4Simon2018