A WARRINGTON man is set to be remembered with a charity bike ride, two years after his tragic death.
Liam Walsh was a much-loved amateur rugby coach who took his own life in April 2020.
Now, his family and friends have formed a team of more than 30 cyclists who will be peddling from Warrington to Glasgow in memory of Liam.
The ride - called 'Pedal to Paradise' (because it will end at Celtic Park stadium - known as 'Paradise') - will take place on the weekend of 24-26 August.
Covering 220 miles, the charity ride is being used to fundraise for a number of charities: St Rocco's, Off Load, Man Talk, and the Shannon Bradshaw Trust.
Liam's aunt, Joanne, said: "Liam was a well-loved local lad and we just want to raise awareness of mental health and hopefully help others who are suffering."
Tony Rich is one of the riders taking part in the cycle, he said that there will be numerous challenges facing each member of the team: "Aside from the emotion of the ride, I think Shap Fell will be the most difficult part of the ride - nine miles and a constant 1,400ft climb on one stretch of road.
"Actual vehicles break down when ascending this road so this will be the point where strong teamwork and camaraderie will really come into play."
The team is hoping to raise a total of £10,000 for their chosen charities.
Tony added: "I think it's really important to recognise the efforts of everybody that have helped to make this ride possible.
"It seems a little unfair to pick out individuals, but Louis Walsh and Joe Moore - Liam's younger brother and close friend respectively have thrown everything into this event and have shown great maturity and professionalism from day one.
"Huge thanks also go to our sponsors, without whom the ride would be virtually impossible."
There will be two runners setting off from Kilwinning and running to Glasgow (approx. 30 miles), and their aim is to meet up with the cyclists as they finish the ride.
Anyone wishing to donate can do so via the team's JustGiving page.
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