A man from Abingdon has set off on a cycling challenge to mark Children’s Hospice Week.

Darren Holmes, whose daughter Alessandra is supported by Helen & Douglas House, an Oxford-based children's hospice, set off on his journey on June 17.

Alessandra, eight, and her family have been supported by Helen & Douglas House for the past five years.

Mr Homes is part of a team who are visiting seven different children's hospices.

They are cycling a 54-mile loop each day this week, signifying the 54 children's hospices across the UK.

Mr Holmes has added to the challenge, cycling 60 miles, starting and finishing at Helen & Douglas House.

He is also cycling to and from the hospice, which was an added distance of 20 miles.

He said: "Helen & Douglas House provides such a wonderful environment not only for Alessandra but the whole family.

"Alessandra has amazing respite visits, and it gives us a chance to spend quality time together.

"Symptom management is key for us, and Helen & Douglas House is so vital in this.

"Alessandra’s older sister goes to sibling support groups and is a place where she has met many good friends. So, this is my little bit of giving back."

The challenge is part of Children's Hospices Across the UK, an initiative developed by Francesca Lennon, a children’s nurse who used to work at Helen & Douglas House.

Ms Lennon's first major project saw her cycle to all 54 children’s hospice services in the UK in 2022, travelling more than 3,400 miles in 70 days.

The initiative seeks to raise both funds and awareness for children’s hospices across the country through Together for Short Lives, a children’s palliative care charity.

Together for Short Lives are calling for the funding and support they need from the government to help every child enjoy their life.

Janet Carruzzo from Helen & Douglas House said: "A huge thank you to Darren for his amazing support in raising awareness and funds for Helen & Douglas House and other children’s hospices.

"Your dedication and determination make a world of difference."

Mr Holmes and the team have set up a Just Giving Page which has a target of £100,000.

The page has so far received £64,343 in donations from more than 1,000 supporters.

Children's Hospice Week, which runs from June 17 to 23, spotlights the support hospices provide to families grappling with children's life-limiting conditions.

Helen & Douglas House cares for children and bereaved families from the Thames Valley.

It has 24 retail shops across the region, which raise awareness of the service provided, as well as raise funds.