Shrewsbury grandad, 84, to take on mammoth Lake Vyrnwy charity bike ride

An 84‑year‑old Shrewsbury grandad is gearing up for a mammoth fundraising challenge, taking on a demanding cycle ride to support the hospice that now cares for his young grandson.

Alan Morris, of Rodington, has been a committed supporter of Hope House since 1993.

More than three decades ago, he helped organise one of the hospice’s earliest fundraising events, contributing to the £1.5 million needed to build the facility.

Since then, he has taken part in countless charity efforts - but this year’s challenge carries a deeply personal meaning.

Alan’s 12‑year‑old grandson, Ruairi, receives respite care at Hope House after being diagnosed at age three with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a life‑limiting muscle‑wasting condition.

Alan, 84, said: “Ruairi loves going to Hope House and as a family it has been a massive support.

“I’ve always been a supporter of Hope House, but now seeing my grandson benefit from the care there makes it even more important.”

On Sunday, August 9, Alan will join hundreds of other riders on the cycle challenge where riders will be pedalling one of two routes, a 56-mile route to Lake Vyrnwy or a 70-mile distance to Lake Bala.

The longer routes returns via one of the highest public road mountain passes in Wales in Bwlch y Gores, with a summit altitude of 545 metres.

After last year's event was cancelled due to Storm Darragh damage making parts of the route impassable, the challenge returns this summer alongside the virtual Cycle100 challenge, which was launched in place of the physical ride.

Alan said: “I’m looking forward to taking on the ride. While I’m fit enough to do it I will. I have always looked after myself and kept active and have actually done this ride before in the past.”

Hope House fundraiser Harriet Richards said they were “delighted” to bring the cycle challenge for summer, alongside the virtual Cycle100.

She said: “We know how much our cyclists look forward to this event every year and we can’t wait to welcome Alan and all our amazing riders once again to raise money which will help children with life-threatening conditions to live their best life.

“The day itself is also a fantastic celebration of cycling, fun and beautiful English and Welsh countryside.”