A TEAM of cyclists is hoping to raise thousands of pounds in memory of a 'fantastic' Clarets fan who died from cancer.

The group of friends will ride tandem bikes from Turf Moor at the end of Burnley's match against West Ham on Saturday, February 6, to Craven Cottage where Burnley face Fulham three days later.

The 220-mile ride will raise cash for Derian House Children's Hospice, Chorley, in memory of avid Burnley supporter Tom Smith.

And it will be a poignant trip as the group are setting off on the anniversary of the death of the former Crawshawbooth Primary School and year-nine pupil at Bowland High School, Grindleton, lost his cancer battle three years ago.

The 14-year-old had touched the hearts of many, including Burnley Football team and their former manager Steve Cotterill, who attended his funeral.

Nick Entwistle, who helped to organise the event with friend Steven Etchells, said: “Tom was one of my neighbours in Crawshawbooth. He was a fantastic lad. He would always be smiling even when times got tough. It would have been his 18th birthday in November, so last year we decided that we should do something to remember him.

“There will be three pairs on tandem bikes and one solo rider."

“The longest we will be riding for is the two days in the middle where we will be doing 70 miles a day, that will be tough. “We just hope we get there in time for the match! ”

To donate money for the event, visit www.justgiving.com/thetomsmithmemorialchallenge.