CYCLISTS took part in a Hampshire ride in memory of a “vibrant wife and mother”.

The ‘Tour des Silos’ was organised by Rob Sanderson, 60, and son Will, 24, to raise awareness of motor neurone disease, having lost wife and mother Kate to the illness in 2014.

Kate’s health began to steadily decline three years ago, however diagnosis was not straightforward.

It took doctors months to identify the rare condition, and just 14 weeks later she lost her battle at age 50.

Currently there is no prevention, treatment or cure for the illness.

The father and son decided to set up CycleForKate to fundraise for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

The first event organised by the pair in Kate’s memory was an 800 mile cycle ride from Calais to Perpignan over 10 days in July 2015, raising £40,000 for the MNDA.

Recognising that cycling 800 miles isn’t for everyone, they started a more inclusive annual event, ‘Tour des Silos.’

The challenge, which started and ended at Winchester Rugby Club, consisted of circular routes of 25, 50, 78 or 104 mile distances depending upon experience, fitness or ambition.

The 2016 inaugural ride saw 117 cyclists raising more than £10,000 and this year’s event has added a further £5,000 towards its £100,000 target.

Rob, who lives in Kings Worthy, said: “It was an excellent day and the weather stayed dry for everybody to finish.

“We had brilliant feedback from the riders who all appreciated their respective challenge regardless of distance but this is nothing compared to the challenge of those suffering with or caring for someone with MND.

“A number of the cyclists were riding for their own very personal reasons too having witnessed MND in close family and friends.

“Had we not set up CycleForKate this would not have happened and it’s some comfort to both Will and myself that some benefit is derived and that the memories of a vibrant 50-year-old wife and mother was shared with so many who knew Kate.”