AN eight-year-old boy who suffers from life-threatening seizures inspired a team of cyclists to ride non-stop for 24 hours.

Braintree youngster Harrison Hart, who has a rare form of epilepsy, regularly goes to Broomfield Hospital’s Phoenix ward for treatment.

The cyclists – dubbed ‘Team Harrison’ – included Harrison’s dad Shaun and work colleagues from AJW Distribution.

They set off at 7.30am on Friday from the firm’s Cambridgeshire depot and cycled more than 73 miles to its Witham base where they were joined by Harrison, his parents and Donna Dodd, a specialist nurse who has supported Harrison and his family through his treatment.

The riders then took turns pedalling an exercise bike until 7.30am on Saturday to complete the 24-hour challenge.

Harrison’s mum Debbie said: “I would just like to say a huge thank you to Team Harrison for the amazing effort.

“It was so overwhelming to have such a lovely group of people put so much effort into the charity.

“Not only will this help children throughout Essex, but personally will also help my own son.”

Charlotte Jefcoate, fundraising co-ordinator at Mid Essex Hospitals Charity, said: “It was a great event and the money will make a big difference to the children and staff on Phoenix ward.

“We are extremely grateful for the wonderful support we’ve received from everyone at AJW and look forward to the events they have planned to raise more money for Phoenix later in the year.”

Team Harrison is made up of AJW’s Liz Custance, Dean Wicks, Rainer Hoefft and Don Goldsworthy-Ellson.

They were also joined by Seven Assets’ Steve Cole and Rob Simmons, and personal trainer Ernie Ross.

AJW marketing director Charlotte Woods said: “I am extremely proud of everyone who took part.

“We wanted to thank the Phoenix ward team for Harrison’s amazing care by giving something back.”