Saddle up fot Messenger backed charity (From Messenger Newspapers)

Saddle up fot Messenger backed charity

12:06pm Thursday 31st January 2013 in News By Rick Bowen

OLYMPIC cycling stars Jess Varnish and Liam Phillips have given a Sale-based charity’s sponsored cycle challenge a major push.

Hearts and Minds Challenge - an organisation backed by Messenger - wants to raise £1 million to build a school for autistic children.

The duo called on Trafford people to climb into the saddle and take part in the charity’s sponsored cycle ride from Malaga to Gibraltar in May.

Jess, 22, said she’ll be taking part in the 300 mile ride to raise cash for the appeal and said its a cause that’s close to their hearts.

Speaking at the launch of the event held at Manchester’s Velodrome, Jess said her cousin Gemma has a form of autism and said they both wanted to play their part in the building of the school.

Liam, 23, added: “Obviously with the connection to cycling and the money that’ll be raised throughout the summer we’re in a position to be able to support that. The money raised will go to a great cause.”

Michael Stewart’s 10-year-old son Harrison was diagnosed with autism last year and he said a school catering for the educational needs of autistic children is much needed.

The 34-year-old said: “I think it’s massively important - I think it’ll be a main centre that will offer support as much as anything else. Not just for the children but for the families as well. It’ll be a massive boost for families like ours who have not been sure where to turn and where to get advice.”

The school could be built in Trafford and will initially cater for 25 pupils, between three and 11 years old.

* Anyone interested in finding out more about the CyclingBuddy Charity Challenge or any other fundraising events should visit www.heartsandmindschallenge.org