SINGING legend Sir Cliff Richard is supporting a bid by a Chester tennis coach to raise money for Claire House Children’s Hospice.

Gary Ward, 48, of Peel Hall Park, Ashton Hayes, aims to raise a staggering £100,000 for the charity through two fundraising events.

The first, a 24-hour tennis marathon, will take place at Old Hall Country Club and Spa, Aldford Road, Huntington, on Saturday (June 12) – and Sir Cliff is urging people to take part.

He said: “I find it incredibly inspiring that people are pulling together and raising money for a such a great cause in such an innovative way.

“Claire House offers a haven for terminally ill children and I often donate to the charity via my trust. I urge everyone to enter, no matter what your ability or fitness level, as every entrant will help Gary reach his goal.”

Open to applicants of any age or ability, the marathon will start at 6pm on Saturday.

Entrants to the marathon will take turns to play single or double fun matches.

A barbecue will be fired up during the whole event, with delicious food and wine from local suppliers.

Along with a range of fun tennis group games for fitness enthusiasts, there will also be a radar to test your fastest serve and a ball machine to challenge your fitness and record your highest rally scores.

Gary added: “Our aim is to raise £10,000 by having 100 adults and juniors players sponsored to play continuously throughout the day and night.”

Gary’s second challenge to raise the further £90,000 is a 30-day 3,152 mile bike journey across America from San Diego to Florida in September.