The family and friends of a teenager who died of a hidden heart condition are set to ride the 60 miles from Manchester to Blackpool to raise funds for charity.

Ashley Livesey, from Oldham, died of Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS) during an inter-school cross-country championship nearly two decades ago at the age of 15.

Parents Gary and Julie Livesey were devastated by the loss of their son, who was a student at Royton and Crompton School.

The Oldham Times: Ashley LiveseyAshley Livesey

But alongside their family and friends, they've used the tragedy for good and gone on to fundraise for SADS UK, which donates defibrillators to communities, helps research, and supports those who have lost loved ones.

On July 10, Team Ash is set to ride 60 miles as a part of the Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride, which starts at Media City in Salford Quays and ends underneath the mirror ball on the seaside town's South Promenade.

It is a challenge close to their hearts as one Ashley used to do to fundraise for The Christie. They've set a target of £500 on a page on JustGiving, with all of it to go to SADS UK.

The Oldham Times: Gary and Julie Livesey outside Royton and Crompton SchoolGary and Julie Livesey outside Royton and Crompton School

Anne Jolly, the founder of the charity, said: "SADS UK thanks Gary and Julie Livesey and their family and friends for supporting SADS UK since Ashley’s tragic death in 2004. 

"We are very grateful to everyone in Team Ash taking part in the Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride and wish them all a safe and enjoyable event. 

"It is so often the case that vibrant young people are taken away so suddenly by SADS. The sudden death of a child, young person or healthy adult is traumatic and devastating. 

"SADS UK offers support to many families and individuals who have lost loved ones.
"In order to help prevent such tragedies SADS UK funds research into SADS to better understand, identify and treat the complex conditions that can cause sudden death. 

"The charity also distributes life-saving defibrillators and cardiac equipment in the community."

To contribute on JustGiving, go to justgiving.com/fundraising/gary-livesey2.

For information on SADS UK, email Anne Jolly on sadsuk@btconnect.com or go to sadsuk.org.