A DETERMINED cyclist is taking on a gruelling challenge cycling 10,000 kilometres in a year – while raising money for a hospice close to his heart.

Graham Davies, from Bransford, is raising money for St Richard’s Hospice, which provided community nursing care to his mother-in-law, Katrina, at home.

The 55-year-old, who works as a driver for the Worcestershire charity, began the challenge in October 2019 and has clocked-up 8,500km cycling in his spare time.

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He said: "I first met Katrina in 1980 and she became my mother in law in 1989. She was a wonderful caring person and nothing was too much trouble for her friends and family.

"She loved animals, Constantine Bay in Cornwall, her grandchildren and Southampton FC.

“Working for the hospice, I see the amazing work that’s done. The warehouse team sorts through a massive amount of clothes, bric-a-brac, books, furniture, and more, which has been generously donated by the public.

“The fabulous shop managers work tirelessly to sell the donated goods and are supported by an incredible number of volunteers.

“Then, when we drive to the hospice in Wildwood Drive, I see the incredible facility that is St Richard’s Hospice.

“There are continual improvements being made to enable the hospice to care for more and more people in a better way. It’s a brilliant organisation to be involved with.”

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Kelly Johns, Fundraiser at St Richard’s, said: “We are in awe of Graham’s phenomenal challenge and wish him all the very best!

“We’re cheering him on all the way through the year – and are especially looking forward to supporting him with his cycle between all our shops.

“On behalf of everyone here at St Richard’s, I’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to Graham for raising money in support of our hospice care.”

To support Mr Davies’ fundraising with a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/graham-davies20