SEVEN friends who embarked on a gruelling 150-mile round bike trek – with a mountain climb sandwiched in between for good measure – have raised more than £6,000 for an Ellesmere Port dad-of-two who is fighting a life-limiting disease.

Stuart Booth, 40, Gerrard Hudson, 19, Gary Williams, 34, Mike Carr, 35, Matty Concannon, 34, Jody Devonside, 42, and Lee Cradduck, 37, who all live in the town, completed their epic challenge at the end of last month.

The group – assisted by a support vehicle – cycled all the way to Snowdon, climbed to the summit, and then got back on the saddle to make the return trip home.

The fundraiser was in aid of 41-year-old Chris Thurston – husband to Kate and dad to Joey and Isla – who has Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

He was diagnosed with the condition four years ago and sadly his physical abilities have deteriorated to the point where alterations are needed to the family home in order to improve his quality of life.

Unfortunately no grants or Government assistance is available to help with the cost of the work.

Stuart Booth, whose children attend the same school as Chris' son and daughter, said: "We managed to raise £6,180 for Chris which is massive.

"It was tough mentally and physically but thoroughly enjoyable and well worth the effort from all the lads.

"I'd like to say a massive thank you to the lads who took part – Lee Cradduck, Gary Williams and his partner Gerard Hudson, Mike Carr, Matty Concannon and Jody Devonside – and our support vehicle driver, Alan Williams and Willow (his dog).

"Without him it would have been a lot tougher as he ferried all our gear to check points throughout the day from 4am until 8pm.

"I’d also like to thank some of our ride sponsors for their generosity, Matt Finish kitchen respraying, DHL Eastham refinery, JR Websters, Mike Thelwell flooring – they’ve all been brilliant and helped us significantly to reach and surpass our target.

"A massive thank you also goes out to every single person who has donated and shown generosity in such difficult times for everyone.

"Collectively we’ve made a massive difference to Chris and his young family and relieved some of the stress and obstacles that were in their way.

"It will help improve Chris’ quality of life. For that, me, the lads, Chris and his family are so grateful."

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