An eight-year-old boy from Chester is taking on a 50-mile cycling challenge to raise money for a charity close to his heart.

Harvey Capewell will cycle 50 miles throughout June alongside his dad in support of The ME Association, inspired by the impact that ME/CFS has had on his mum's life.

His mum, Jo, was diagnosed with ME/CFS seven years ago.

To prepare for the challenge, he has been training on weekends and evenings, building up his distance with shorter bike rides ahead of the fundraiser.

Harvey said: "My mum has ME/CFS, which really affects her life and it's very disappointing because she is unable to do many of the things she would like to do that are fun.

"I want to raise as much money as I can so it can help her get better and we can live a happy life."

Jo was diagnosed with ME/CFS shortly after Harvey was born. In the years following her diagnosis, she spent long periods bedbound due to the condition.

ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis), also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), is a long-term, multi-system condition that can cause extreme fatigue, sleep problems, pain, cognitive difficulties and post-exertional malaise, where symptoms worsen after physical or mental activity.

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The ME Association estimates that at least 404,000 people in the UK are living with ME/CFS. The charity also says that many people experiencing long-term symptoms following Covid-19 may meet the diagnostic criteria for the condition.

Today, Jo is largely housebound and must rest for several hours each day to manage her limited energy levels. With careful planning, the family can still enjoy time together, although this sometimes involves using a wheelchair so Jo can take part.

She said: "I am so proud that Harvey is doing a fundraising cycle for The ME Association. It's not just about raising money, it's about highlighting ME/CFS and how it affects families.

"Before I became ill, I used to cycle a lot, and I'd have loved to join them but it's not something I can manage now. I'm very proud of them both."

Martine Ainsworth-Wells, trustee and campaigns director at The ME Association, said: "The ME Association is full of admiration for Harvey and the amazing challenge he has set himself.

"At just eight years old, he is showing incredible kindness and strength, turning something so personal into hope for others. ME/CFS can be a difficult condition for families to face, and Harvey's 50 mile cycle is a great example of hope and positivity.

"Every mile he rides will help raise awareness and vital funds, and we're so proud to have him and his family supporting the ME/CFS community."

You can find out more and donate here.

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