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Tunbridge Wells woman to cycle South Downs Way in memory of late brother

A Tunbridge Wells woman has challenged herself to cycle the South Downs Way in memory of her late brother.

Gabby O'Brien chose to fundraise for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust after the death of 20-year-old, Matt Berry.

His life was cut short by a tragic accident in 1990.

The trust takes people aged between eight and 24 sailing to help them regain confidence during their recovery from cancer.

Left to right: Dave, Jo, Gabby and Chris are doing the South Downs Way together
Left to right: Dave, Jo, Gabby and Chris are doing the South Downs Way together

Mrs O'Brien has already raise over £3,000 for the organisation, but in honour of Matt's love of the sea aims to continue her fundraising efforts.

Explaining her motivation, the 43-year-old said: "Our family celebrate his short life and the many happy memories. Matt is never far from my thoughts and greatly missed as an adored brother. After 25 years and having never undertaken any challenge in his name I've decided to cycle the South Downs Way."

"His absolute passion was the sea, becoming a Royal Naval officer at Dartmouth as well as sailing Europe and 470 Class dinghies throughout the late eighties with high ambitions to be the best."

Planning to set out on Sunday, Mrs O'Brien will embark on the off-road challenge with her husband, Chris, and their friends, Jo and Dave Edwards.

The ride will take the group 100 miles from Winchester to Eastbourne.

Launched in 2003, the aim of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is to give young people in recovery from cancer the chance to rebuild their confidence through sailing.

In its 12th year, the Trust has grown into a national charity.

Fore more information or to donate to Mrs O'Brien's fundraising efforts click here.

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