Brother completes cycle challenge in memory of sister

John Wright on his charity cycle from London to Ghent in Belgium, with his lucky mascot, Rosemere Ted, having reached the top of a steep cobbled climb in France

Regional development manager John Wright swapped the office for the open road for the gruelling 250 mile cycle as a tribute to his sister Jill Brakewell, who died last November from Leukaemia, aged 64.

John’s charity cycle has raised more than £1,500 for the Rosemere Cancer Foundation

The dad-of-three was joined by a number of cycling friends that he met last year on a charity bike ride to Cannes.

They included Jane Kennett, a former Royal Preston Hospital nurse, who now works as a medical researcher in London and who mapped John’s Belgium expedition for him

John, 58, who is married to Barbara and works for housing group Places for People said: “I am not a natural cyclist but last year, I cycled 1,000 miles in 10 days to Cannes to raise money for North West Air Ambulance.

“This year, my quest is a personal one as it is to raise money for a cause close to my sister’s heart.”

John’s sister Jill, who also lived in Bamber Bridge, died just six weeks after being diagnosed with cancer last November.

Before her death the mum and grandma had planned a charity night at the Bamber Bridge and County Catholic Club, where she was club president to raise vital funds for the Rosemere charity.

John alongside Jill’s husband Mick, her three children and other family members went on to host the night at the club in her name, raising £6,000.

Some of the family are now planning to take part in Rosemere’s annual Walk the Lights along Blackpool Prom, which this year sets off from Bispham at 7.30pm on Friday, October 7.