A FORMER Camelford man is going to be cycling from John O'Groats to Land's End on Friday, July 16, to raise funds for the Royal Marsden Hospital.

Jeff Burnett, who now lives in Surrey, lost his six-year-old son Alistair in 2009 to Juvenile Myelomonocytic leukaemia (JMML) – a rare and aggressive leukaemia.

Described as 'an incredible, brave boy who impressed all with his fight, his desire for life and his natural ability to bring humour to all situations,' Ali's time spent at the Royal Marsden made an impression on Jeff and his family and friends.

Jeff said: "Although he lost his battle, we could have not asked for more from the medical staff. We hope that by raising vital funds others will benefit from their research skills, facilities and care – thereby enhancing the lives of other children battling leukaemia."

The cycle group comprises nine other members of family and friends, all of whom want not only to raise funds for the hospital, but commemorate the life of a wonderful young boy.

Due to Alistair's love of superheroes, the group have decided to ride in costume – from Batman to Zorro, Bananaman to Captain Underpants – as a tribute.

Jeff attended Camelford Primary School and Sir James Smith's Community School as a youngster, before leaving in 1989 to go to university. The ride will finish at Land's End, as being a Cornish lad, he is keen to finish in his home county.

Jeff returns regularly to the town, to see family and spend some time enjoying the surroundings. He said: "I still have friends in the area so I do like to catch up with them. I also like to take the family to places in Cornwall, places like the beach, that we love to see when we are in the county."

The route consists of 866 miles, which they aim to complete within ten days – arriving at Land's End on Sunday, July 25.

Unfortunately the route doesn't take the group through North Cornwall, as the penultimate stint runs from Crediton to Truro, but Jeff expects friends and family from Camelford to join them at the finish line.

Donations can still be made towards the trip at http://www.alisbigride.co.uk">www.alisbigride.co.uk.