LITTLE Ciara’s dad needs the public’s support as he gears up for an epic charity cycling challenge next month.

Together with his friend Sion Owen, Neil Fowler will take on the bike ride of his life by cycling 1,000 miles in the ‘Home2Rome’ challenge which starts from Chester’s Roman amphitheatre and finishes at the Colosseum in Rome.

The Fowlers, who also have a six-year-old son, and a baby daughter, are determined to raise awareness of the condition, and to support charities such as Rett Syndrome Research Trust UK which focuses on finding fast treatments and cures for the disease.

And when they take part in the 13-day cycling challenge on May 11, Neil and Sion will be hoping to raise as much money as possible for the charity.

The 1,400 mile route includes a Dover to Calais ferry crossing before cycling through Eastern France, and the Swiss Alps, and then following the Mediterraneran coast to Rome.

Neil said: “I don’t view this as some life experience or personal challenge, it’s a way of trying to ensure a brighter future for my daughter, Ciara, and others who with Rett Syndrome.”

To support Neil and Sion’s charity feat, visit www.justgiving.com/Neil-Fowler1-Home2Rome-Cycling2CureCiara