SUPERFIT Jack Liddell is on the cycling challenge of a lifetime in memory of his young niece.

The 22-year-old, from Bolton, is biking the 900 miles from John O'Groats to Lands End in aid of the Epilepsy Society.

Jack's motivation is his young niece, Bethany, who sadly passed away aged four after struggling with epilepsy all her life. His hope is to raise awareness of the condition and how it can affect those living with it.

Jack, a huge Bolton Wanderers fan and season-ticket holder will miss Whites’ opening game of the season against Derby and their mid-week Capital One Cup clash against Burton Albion.

The cycling enthusiast, who set out on the challenge yesterday, is riding solo and unsupported so will be carrying everything he needs, including tent, sleeping bag, clothes and food supplies, with him.

He said: "I'm really looking forward to this monster of a challenge, but I must confess it will not be easy — I got a little saddle-sore just from all the training

Jack added: "Bethany was a ray of sunshine and not a day goes by where she is not thought about or missed.

"Doing something like this helps to keep her memory alive and if I can raise some money for the Epilepsy Society in the process then it will make it all worthwhile. She never let her epilepsy affect her and was always happy and smiling and I know she'll be watching over me, pushing me on all the way."

Epilepsy is the most common serious neurological condition and affects more than half a million people in the UK, around one person in every hundred.

The Epilepsy Society runs a confidential helpline from Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm and to 8pm on Wednesdays. It has a comprehensive range of information leaflets on many aspects of living and coping with epilepsy. In addition, the charity runs tailor-made training programmes for health professionals, employers and individuals as well as providing a comprehensive range of training and qualifications for staff members.

Epilepsy Society helpline on 01494 601400 or visit www.epilepsysociety.org.uk