FIVE intrepid Chester youngsters are cycling from London to Paris to raise money for the Chester Heart Support Group and Help for Heroes.

The ride, which starts on September 4, is in memory of Ron Forest, a founder member of the Chester Heart Support Group and grandfather to Helen Clowes, 21, Carl Van Schie, 21, and Philip Clowes, 27.

They are being joined on the ride by Helen’s fiancé Allen Vincent, 21, and friend Jason McGonigle, also 21.

Helen said: “I like to raise some money through doing a sponsored event every year – last year Allen and I abseiled down Devil’s Gorge for Macmillan Cancer Support and the year before I took part in the moonlight walk for the Countess of Chester Hospital.

“This year I wanted more of a challenge as I have much more of a personal reason for doing it.

“Philip, Carl and I were all very close to our grandad and he was a major part of our lives.

“I wanted to do something that would not only make him very proud but also give something back to people who have helped him over the years.”

As founder members of the Chester Heart Support Group, Ron and his wife Jean had been involved with it since 1989, since which time it has offered help, support and advice to countless patients and families of those affected by heart problems.

“We want something positive to come out of losing this great person from our lives,” added Helen.

“And I hope he will be watching from somewhere and will be very proud of us all.”

The team is planning to cover the 206 miles over three days, and has so far raised more than £2,000, with support from the Bike Factory and Allen’s employer HSBC.

You can learn more about the fundraisers’ trip and sponsor them at www.london-paris.org.