A YOUNG boy who is just one of 70 children worldwide with a rare genetic condition was the inspiration behind a cricket legend embarking on a gruelling 324-mile bike ride.

Somerset and former England star Marcus Trescothick raised £18,278.77 for Children's Hospice South West through his sponsored cycle.

He covered 65 miles a day in October accompanied by friends, including Kevin Morris, whose son, Finley has sodium channel brain disorder, a neurological condition.

'Tres' and the team called in at CHSW's hospices at Charlton Farm, in North Somerset, where Finley's family visit for respite, Little Bridge House, North Devon, and Little Harbour, in St Austell.

The cricketer, who has been an ambassador for the charity since 2008, along with Finley and his family presented a cheque to CHSW chief executive Eddie Farwell at a recent Somerset match in Taunton.

"I was delighted that we were able to raise so much money...wish to thank all of the sponsors and supporters who contributed so generously towards the total," said Marcus.

"I'd also like to thank my fellow riders who put so much effort into completing the ride alongside me.

"Eddie Farwell and his team at CHSW do such a fantastic job looking after life-limited children and their families, and I am always humbled when I see what incredible work they do and what a difference it makes to those children's short and precious lives."

Mr Farwell, said: "Marcus’s fundraising efforts for CHSW are every bit as special as his cricketing heroics and we are extremely proud to call him an ambassador of our charity.

“He has been such a passionate and proactive supporter of CHSW for so many years and we are truly grateful for his support.

"The money and awareness he has raised makes a huge difference to the ongoing care and support that we offer to more than 500 children with life-limiting conditions and their families across the South West."