Schoolboy cycled 35 laps of a park for Rowans Hospice

A schoolboy from Fareham completed a sponsored bike ride at the weekend to raise money for The Rowans Hospice.
Rhys Clifford braved the weather to complete a sponsored bike ride for Rowans HospiceRhys Clifford braved the weather to complete a sponsored bike ride for Rowans Hospice
Rhys Clifford braved the weather to complete a sponsored bike ride for Rowans Hospice

Rhys Clifford, 12, collected more than £350 by cycling 35 laps of Blackbrook Park, Fareham on Saturday, despite the bad weather.

The pupil at Henry Cort Community College wanted to raise money for The Rowans Hospice as his great grandad spent his last weeks there in 2010 after getting stomach cancer.

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Rhys’s mother, Lisa Collins, said: ‘The ride went really well, despite the heavy rain and strong winds.

‘He didn’t do any training for the ride either and he only just received his bike at Christmas.

‘So far he’s raised £354 but it looks like it could end up being more than £400, so fingers crossed.

‘The hospice is beautiful and the staff there are absolutely amazing. That is why Rhys wanted to give something back – as a sign of his thanks and appreciation.’

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This is not the first time the youngster has done a sponsored bike ride, having previously completed one four years ago for Brain Tumour Research.

Rhys said: ‘I think the ride went well.

‘Although I experienced some pain when doing it, I know it was nothing compared to the pain some people with life-limiting illnesses experience.

‘I like to do my bit for charities that I believe in, as I know the money raised will help a good cause. I’m already planning my next charity event, which I’m looking forward to.

‘I would like to say a massive thank-you to all those who sponsored me and supported me on the day.’

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Rhys’s younger brother Josh, nine, joined in on the last five laps, with both brothers then completing a lap of honour together.

Mrs Collins added: ‘I am so proud of both of my boys.

‘They are an absolute credit to me and are always thinking of other people.’

The Rowans Hospice provides specialist hospice care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses resident in Portsmouth and south-east Hampshire.