A WEST Ealing family took on a charity cycle challenge in memory of a grandfather who died during the Prudential RideLondon in 2017.

Martin Ozols and wife, Kate, both 42, along with sons Oliver, 6, and Archie, 4, and Martin’s brother, Ellis, 24, cycled to Earls Court from their home, with his mum, Nina, driving the support car.

It was quite a feat for young Archie as he learned to cycle only during the lockdown.

The fund-raiser was part of the Queen Elizabeth Foundation for Disabled People’s Big Thrive event..

The idea was for people to run, walk or cycle somewhere that makes them thrive - an area with a wonderful view, a place where they feel at peace or just somewhere they have missed during lockdown.

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Martin said: “Every year I have been undertaking the RideLondon ride to remember my father, Maris, and also stop off at the place where his race came to an end. It seemed natural to choose this spot.”

The distance was manageable for the adults but the children found the five miles a challenge.

“We were very close to Dad,” he added. “The day he died was a huge shock to us as he had always kept himself in great shape, running, cycling, swimming and yoga.”

They have so far raised £765 for QEF, the Surrey disability charity.

In normal times, the charity supports more than 6,000 disabled children and adults through expert advice and life-changing services.

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ozols-family-funday-cycle