For some it will be a fun day out with family and friends, a chance to get fit and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.But for a father and daughter and a band of supportive workmates, the same bike ride around Thetford Forest will be an emotional tribute to a special little boy and a big thank you to the charity that has kept on caring.

For some it will be a fun day out with family and friends, a chance to get fit and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.

But for a father and daughter and a band of supportive workmates, the same bike ride around Thetford Forest will be an emotional tribute to a special little boy and a big thank you to the charity that has kept on caring.

The Moorhouse family and an ever-growing team of colleagues, relations and pals are all taking part in East Anglia's Children's Hospices' (EACH) Ride for Life on May 18.

The event is open to everyone regardless of age and experience and is expected to raise tens of thousands of pounds for the region's sickest children and their families.

Carl Moorhouse had a special reason to sign up. His eight-year-old son, Jacob, passed away suddenly in December last year after battling quadriplegic cerebral palsy, microcephaly and epilepsy.

EACH provided support at home and respite care at its hospice at Quidenham, near Thetford, giving Jacob exactly what he needed and Carl, wife Michelle and daughter Bethany a well-deserved break from round-the-clock care.

Since Jacob's death, the family have gained strength from the charity's continued support.

“When you lose a child with special needs, you lose all the support links - you lose your allowances, your grants, any help from social services,” said Mr Moorhouse.

“The only people that didn't walk away were Quidenham and they as a charity are continuing to provide counselling to us as a family, including Bethany.

“They have special family days where you can keep in touch, because one of the most difficult things to deal with is losing the sense of community you have with other parents.

“But that is still there and it helps us get through the grieving process.”

Carl and daughter Bethany, along with 16 colleagues from Richmond Electronics and Engineering at North Lopham, aim to raise £3,000 - enough to help almost 300 families before and after bereavement.

The ride gives cyclists the freedom of choosing a 10 or 25-mile route off-road around the forest, or a longer but even-surfaced 19 or 35 miles.

People can bring their own two wheels or hire a bike, or even walk or jog for three or nine miles and bring the dog along too.

Once registered, entrants are sent a rider/walker pack which includes official numbers, sponsor forms, a map and other information.

The event includes stalls, refreshments and a barbeque as well as some entertainment.

Call 01953 715559 for an entry form or you can book online at www.each.org.uk.