HEARTWARMING support for a former pupil with acute myeloid leukaemia was shown by Beacon Hill School staff, who completed a fundraising 24-hour bike ride marathon.

Bryony Faasen was diagnosed in 2017, while she was still a pupil. After an intensive course of treatment and a period of remission, her cancer has recently returned. Money raised from the cyclathon will be given to the family to help relieve any financial pressures and donations are heading towards the £5,000 target.

Staff took turns in various shifts to pedal, some even camping in the hall overnight, with supporters joining them to cheer them on over the last half-an-hour.

Headteacher Catherine Miller, who was the first in the saddle, said: “It was wonderful to see so many of the parents and children, who came to cheer us on for the last 30 minutes and thanks must also go to the PTA who came in early to cook us a lovely breakfast. I would also like to thank everybody who donated as we are now over the £4,000 barrier.”

* The JustGiving page remains open for donations until Friday, December 14. Visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/beacon-hill?utm_

term=WxdErEgv8.