A team of 5 cyclists set off on their 190 mile cycle ride down to Cardiff at 7.30am this morning from outside Alaw Ward at Ysbyty Gwynedd, in memory of their friend Melanie Jones, 34, from Bangor, who died in February this year after a two year battle against bowel cancer.

‘Ride for Mel’ has been organised to raise money for Alaw Ward via the Awyr Las Charity in memory of Mel, and the team were given the good news before they set off this morning that their fundraising had reached £2,000.

The team of cyclists, who hope to arrive at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff tomorrow, includes Dave Roberts, Craig Roberts, Richard Roberts, Tom Davies and Gareth Roberts and the support van is being driven by Danny Wade, all friends of Mel and her family.

The ‘Just Giving’ page which ahs been set up in Mel‘s memory reads: “Melanie was a very special person and she went through so much in the last 2 years and did it all with a smile.

“A couple of years ago Melanie went through intense chemotherapy for bowel cancer and was told it was a precaution after she had her bowel removed. Sadly months later she was told the heartbreaking news that the cancer had spread and she would need more treatment.

“After going through it all and still remaining extremely positive she received the devastating news before Christmas that it was terminal and all Mel wanted to do was put her husband and 3 children first and make sure their time together was special.

“After fighting it for a long time the beautiful Mel at 34 years old sadly passed away on the 18th of February this year with her family by her side. Mel will never be forgotten as she touched the lives of so many people and what has happened has affected us all.

“Whilst Mel went through her ordeal she was an inpatient on and off on Alaw Ward and passed away whilst on the ward. Not only do they care for their patients with great care but also with love. Mel became very close with lots of the staff on Alaw and at times was like naughty girls laughing in her room. All the staff go way further than their job titles to make people comfortable and relaxed.

“To have these lovely men who were also Mel’s friends want to do this bike ride for Alaw ward and to raise money for what the ward needs means a lot as Alaw ward holds a special place in Mel’s family and friends hearts. It is also to keep Mel’s memory alive. She truly was an inspiration, a loving wife, fantastic mother, special daughter, beautiful sister and a very great friend.”

Donations are still welcome via Mel’s Just Giving Page here: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/inmemoryofmel?utm_term=3NYyAjE82