Thousands raised in memory of North Pickenham woman

Having cycled across Europe in memory of a North Pickenham mother in September, it has been announced this week that two men have raised thousands of pounds for a hospice.

Alec Payne and Josh Ayres, pictured at the start of the challenge, have raised a total of £7,462.81 for the Swaffham and Litcham Home Hospice.

The fundraiser was dedicated to Alec’s mother Sharon, who received support from the hospice before sadly dying at the age of 50 in spring 2020 after a long battle with cancer.

Funds raised will support the hospice at a challenging time with the service providing support for approximately 250 patients each year who have cancer or terminal illnesses.

A spokeswoman said: “We cannot thank them both enough and we would like to thank wholeheartedly all of those who sponsored this event, whether it be as an individual or one of the local businesses that helped make this possible.

“The onset of Covid-19 has brought difficulties and challenges to all of us like we have never known before. As we work hard through these deeply challenging times, this money will help to continue our services which are provided free of charge.

“We have had to adapt to new ways of working, whilst we continue throughout the pandemic to support those in our local area who have received a cancer diagnosis and those who are bereaved.”

Although Josh struggled with a knee injury which meant he had to rest in Amsterdam, the pair were able to raise an impressive total by travelling through six nations in two weeks.

Sharon was described as the ‘Mrs Cricket’ of Swaffham due to her dedication to the club which saw her take on a number of roles. She also worked at Lynn’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital.