THE acting head of Willowdown Primary Academy is taking on the Bristol to Paris Cycle Challenge 2016.

Andy Venn began his bike ride on April 29 until May 3 to raise money for Bristol Hospital's Above and Beyond.

He has chosen this charity because his son, Joseph, 12, is a cardiac patient at Bristol Children's Hospital and has had six heart procedures there.

Andy said: "Joe has been intensive care and has had two bypasses.

"We didn't think he would even live to the age of 12 that he is now but he's doing great, although he still gets tured sometimes.

"The hospital asked to use Joe as their poster child for their campaign and I decided to do this cycle for a good cause after it was suggested that I sign up.

"I'm so greateful for all the support I've had, especially from the schools in the Trust and Willowdown has raised so much money for us, as well as Wellesley Park Primary School.

"All the parents and kids cheered us off."

Andy has been training for the event for the past months, and said he feels fit enough to complete the challenge.

"It's been intense but I feel fit enough for it and I'm ready for it.

"The suffering I'll go through doing this ride is minimal compared to what Joseph goes through and the hospital has been so supportive over the years for us.

"I was very nervous beforehand but it's a great thing to be doing.

"There's 80 of us taking part in total."

Andy is helping to raise money for a 3D scanner for Bristol Children's Hospital.

"I've raised £7,000 already and my target was £3,000," he added.

"The scanner costs £150,000 and will allow doctors to look at people's hearts properly.

"I can't thank everyone who's donated and supported me enough and it's a great cause that is very personal to me.

"A huge thankyou to everyone."

To donate and support Andy, visit https://bristoltoparis2016.everydayhero.com/uk/andrew/posts/510906

Pics taken by ash