A MAN has set off on a 2,500-mile cycling trip across Europe in memory of two Cockermouth brothers who died 10 years ago.

Harry Shepherd, 31, from Eaglesfield, is cycling from Portugal to Romania in memory of his friends Christian and Niggy Townend.

Christian, who was 29, and Niggy, 21, were killed in a road crash while cycling on the A595 in 2010.

Every year, friends of the brothers organise the Team Townend Challenge, a cycling sportive held in Loweswater.

Over the last decade the event has raised more than £70,000 for RoadPeace, which campaigns for safer roads and supports bereaved families.

This year’s event, on May 9, marks the 10th challenge and the organisers hope to reach £100,000 for the charity.

The event, on May 9, will include three cycling routes, an auction, activities for children and an evening event with live music.

All sponsorship raised through Harry’s trip will contribute towards the fundraising goal.

He began his challenge last week, on the Atlantic coast in Portugal, and plans to cycle and camp through eight countries to reach the Black Sea at the south-eastern extremity of Europe.

He plans to complete the ride in the first week of May, meaning he’ll be back in time for the Townend Challenge.

“To mark 10 years since Niggy and Christian were killed, we really wanted to do something special,” said Harry. “Having a big fundraising goal meant we had to get creative. Someone had the idea of a huge bike ride before the challenge – and I thought I’d give that a go.

“I’ve no doubt it will be a big challenge, but I know I’ll have Christian and Niggy spurring me on. Or laughing at me struggle along the way.“We’re really looking forward to bringing people together in May, to celebrate and remember the boys, and support a really important cause in RoadPeace.”

For more details about the Team Townend Challenge, go to www.teamtownend.org.

To donate go to justgiving.com/followtheshepherd.