AN INNERLEITHEN family have helped raise almost £8,000 for charity by completing a three-day coast to coast ‘Ray of Light’ challenge.

The fundraiser, which began in Annan on Friday, April 21 and ended in St Andrews, two days later, covered 173 miles.

It took place in memory of Eilidh Frances Richards, who died in September 2019 from a rare, terminal mitochondrial disease.

Eilidh’s parents, Louise and Joe Richards, from Cupar, Fife, wanted to raise money for Ronald McDonald House Charities UK which provides free “home away from home” accommodation for families of seriously ill children in hospital.

Border Telegraph: Coast to Coast ‘Ray of Light.’ Challenge.

The couple stayed in the Ronald McDonald House Camberwell during their daughter’s treatment.

Louise’s cousin Will Clarke, who is originally from Innerleithen, organised the ride which included Eilidh’s dad Joe, grandfather Mick Plunkett, uncle Luke Plunkett, family friend Jamie McCubbin and Will’s mum Chris Clarke.

Chris’s husband Peter Clarke and Louise’s mum Janis Plunket drove the support vehicle.

Chris, 70, said: “It was quite a few days. It was very cold and the wind came from the north east which meant we had it in our face the entire way.

Border Telegraph: Coast to Coast ‘Ray of Light.’ Challenge.

“We pulled into the Ronald McDonald House in Edinburgh which has only been open for a couple of years and it was very moving. The facility is excellent, and they have thought of everything.

“I managed to pedal the 173 miles and with the help of my e-bike I managed to keep up with the younger and fitter riders.

“It felt really good and it was lovely to see Louise and Richard’s daughter Wren who is nine months old on the journey.

“The Ronald McDonald House Charities UK charity is absolutely incredible.

Border Telegraph: Coast to Coast ‘Ray of Light.’ Challenge.

“It was a home from home for Louise and Joe and it was important that they had somewhere to stay which was close to the hospital.

“It costs £5,000 per year to pay for one room. Initially we hoped to raise enough £5,000 but having passed that our aim is now to raise enough for two rooms.

“So if anyone wants to help us do that, they can donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rayoflightride."

Border Telegraph: Coast to Coast ‘Ray of Light.’ Challenge.

Louise added: “It was great to unite everyone for this special event. It’s an experience we’ll be talking about as a family for many years to come.

“We are delighted with our much we’ve raised and thank everyone who donated.”