THE FORMER head teacher of Barry Island Primary school has set out on a year-long cycling and running challenge to support the Marie Curie hospice in Penarth.

Ty Golding, now head teacher of Ysgol y Ddraig in Llantwit Major, is aiming to raise funds and awareness for the charity in honour of his friend Gareth Pezzack, who died on August 6 last year.

The father-of-two, from Penarth, is also supporting the hospice as his mother, who has recently been diagnosed with motor neuron’s disease, receives care there.

The 42-year-old coach of the Vale of Glamorgan U11s District Rugby Team is no stranger to sport, but was afraid to promote the challenge he began on August 7 last year for fear of being unable to maintain the effort and let people down.

Mr Golding said: "I decided to try and raise awareness and a little money; helping Marie Curie in their ongoing care and support of people who find themselves, often through no rhyme or reason, amidst the most difficult of times. I’ve been running or riding each day since Monday, August 7.

“I’m highly unlikely to run any decent times or break any records but am committed to the challenge of getting my kit on and getting out - every single day regardless of rain, shine, illness, time or fatigue.

"Each day in the challenge is a celebration of the things that are important to us all and an appreciation that nothing is permanent.”

Mr Golding raised money for Marie Curie when with three Barry Island parents, he undertook a 54-mile run/walk over the Brecon Beacons.

Mr Golding is aiming to raise £2017 to mark the year the challenge began.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/plodpedalstreak