A YOUNG girl has taken on a bike challenge in memory of her grandfather.
Phoebe Rutherford, 12, from Gosport, completed a 26-mile bike ride to raise money for the charity Bowel Cancer UK.
Her grandfather Steve Thompson was diagnosed with the disease after passing blood and experiencing pain in his stomach and weight loss.
He passed away at the age of 66 after the cancer spread to his liver, and died on May 20, 2021.
After her grandad’s diagnosis, Phoebe walked 13 miles to raise money to go towards cancer research.
The next year, she wanted to do more, so she walked 14 miles in memory of him, raising vital funds for the charity.
READ MORE: Southampton sailor returns from 2,400-mile voyage around Britain
This year marked the second anniversary of his death, and Phoebe wanted an even bigger challenge, deciding on an impressive bike ride around Gosport.
On her fundraiser challenge, she said: "I am very happy to complete tasks like my 26-mile bike ride because I’m raising money to help other people.
"I wish someone could have saved grandad, but raising money means doctors can keep researching how to cure bowel cancer and this could help families who are going through what ours did."
Phoebe was also joined by her mum, Claire, as she took on the bike challenge.
The mum-and-daughter duo cycled past Stokes Bay, Gosport Marina, and across the Millennium Bridge, enjoying the view of the Spinnaker Tower.
So far, they have raised £371 for the cancer charity.
READ MORE: Eastleigh MP helps raise thousands through Mountbatten Hospice skydive
Her mum said: "My dad was never one to be poorly. He was fit, went to the gym regularly, and ate well, so it was such a shock when we got the news. It was all a blur, really, from the day they told me to the day dad passed away.
"Seeing him deteriorate was heartbreaking. I still can’t believe how strong, positive, and determined he was through it all.
"When he was diagnosed, Phoebe knew she wanted to do something to help him. Phoebe was always a grandad’s girl. He used to call her ‘grandad’s little Rambo.’ He was a fun, mischievous grandad who always did the opposite when I said no more ice lollies or play fighting.
"He was so proud of Phoebe when she walked 13 miles in 2020. In the following two years, I’ve been so impressed that she keeps challenging herself to raise lots of money for Bowel Cancer UK.
"We know how important it is to continue supporting the charity so that they can continue their lifesaving research and help others affected by this awful disease.
"This year, me and Phoebe set off on the second anniversary of my dad’s death. It was a very hot, sunny day, and it was an emotional yet satisfying ride. What a little trooper she was. We are all very proud of her and know her grandad would be too: his little Rambo."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here