A FATHER and son are taking on a gruelling cycle challenge in memory of Huddersfield boy Joseph Salmon.

Joseph, three, from Marsh, died in April of streptococcal pneumonia.

He had been a happy, healthy little boy until the disease struck suddenly, killing him in his sleep.

Now, Joseph's uncle, Mark Salmon, and his son Nathan, 15, are to pay tribute to the youngster by raising money for West Yorkshire Forget-Me-Not Trust, which wants to build a hospice for Kirklees and Calderdale.

Mr Salmon said: "He was perfectly fine the day before. He had eaten his meals and shown no signs of illness.

"The pneumonia attacked his lungs and the coroner said it happened quickly, while he slept.

"As there was no specific charity for this illness, I decided to support the hospice appeal."

To raise cash for the £4m project, Mr Salmon and Nathan will cycle the 78 miles from their home in Stainland to Chester Zoo on August 29.

Chester Zoo was chosen as the destination because it was one of Joseph's favourite places.

A tree has already been planted at the zoo in his memory and the family have adopted his favourite animal - a bat.

Mr Salmon, a taxi firm owner, said he and Colne Valley High School pupil Nathan hope to raise a good total.

Mr Salmon added: "We want to raise as much as possible, because the total cost of the hospice will be £4m."

He and Nathan, who also helps youngsters with sports at the Communities United Project, are keen on sports, but have never cycled more than 40 miles.

Mr Salmon said: "We've never taken it up seriously, so this will be a challenge.

"We are getting some serious training in now."

Mandy Barwick, senior fundraiser at the West Yorkshire Forget-Me-Not Trust said the Salmons' fundraising efforts were much appreciated.

She added: "The charity's aim is to establish a children's hospice to serve our local needy families.

"This facility will end the need for children to endure a journey of up to 50 miles to benefit from a specialist hospice.

"Please show your support to Mark and Nathan. Together we can ensure that we make the most of sometimes short, but always precious, lives."

If you want to sponsor the bike riders, contact Mr Salmon on 07949094235.