Pedal power in Tom’s memory (From Bury Times)

Pedal power in Tom’s memory

10:00am Sunday 28th February 2010

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A GROUP of friends cycled more than 230 miles to raise £12,000 for a children’s hospice in memory of a 14 year old football fan, who died from a brain tumour.

Burnley fan Tom Smith loved football but lost his fight for life four years ago.

When it was decided to raise money in his memory, it was felt it was only right to do something related to the teenager’s favourite sport.

Bury friends Nick Entwistle and Stephen Etchells put their heads together and organised a gruelling three-day bike ride to raise nearly £12,000 for a children’s hospice.

A group of ten friends and family members cycled more than 230 miles on tandems to mark the anniversary of Tom’s death on February 6.

Police officer Mr Etchells, of Summerseat, said: “We wanted to do something in his memory and as Tom was a Burnley fan the idea was to watch the team play at Turf Moor and then cycle to the next away game, which was at Fulham.

“So after the home game against West Ham we set off to Craven Cottage in London. I think we all found it challenging but enjoyable.”

The group came up with the Tom Smith Memorial Challenge while celebrating what would have been his 18th birthday in November last year.

The money raised will go to Derian House Children’s Hospice which provided Tom, who used to live in Rossendale, with 24-hour support so he could spend his last days at home.

Dad Chris Smith said the cycle ride was a colossal achievementand a fitting tribute to his son.

He said: “Tom was an amazing lad and had a big effect on a lot of people.

“He had three years of treatment including brain surgery and a bone marrow transplant. He was very courageous.

“He was happy-go-lucky and always had a smile on his face.”

To donate to the cause: visit justgiving.com/thetomsmith memorialchallenge.

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