THE plight of an eight-year-old boy has inspired a truly gruelling fund-raising effort.

Physiotherapist Andy Wray, 38, from Ripon, North Yorkshire, is to cycle almost 800 miles, run up and down the three national peaks – and then tackle the Virgin Money London Marathon on April 24.

The father-of-two, a former professional rugby league prop forward, aims to raise at least £10,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust after seeing how his friend Keith Brook’s son Alfie has been affected by the condition.

Cystic fibrosis is a life-shortening inherited disease, which affects almost 10,000 people in the UK by clogging vital organs with thick, sticky mucus. There is presently no cure.

Mr Wray, who starts his trip this weekend, said: “Alfie has to do daily breathing exercises and clear his lungs regularly. To him, breathing difficulties are normal.

“But children like him deserve every chance at life and I would love to see the money I raise go towards research so they have a better future.”

Mr Wray, whose physiotherapy business is based at the Sports Pavilion in Darnborough Gate, Ripon, will be joined by friends as he tackles Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England and Snowdon in Wales.

He will cycle between the countries before biking to London for the climax of the five-day trip.

His friend David Arundell, 73, will join him for the London Marathon as part of Team iGotDoms, which is named after Mr Wray’s sportswear business.

Last year Mr Wray raised £27,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support by cycling two passengers in a rickshaw from Harrogate to the charity’s headquarters in London, before doing the London Marathon.

“To some people these trips are unthinkable, but to me it’s just a way of helping other people’s life journey become so much more comfortable,” said Mr Wray.

Mr Brook said: “We were very lucky in that we found out Alfie had cystic fibrosis before he was born, so there was no damage to his lungs. He has a big personality and he’s totally lovable.

“We’re are very grateful to Andy for what’s he’s about to do for the CF Trust – he’s the perfect person to undertake this challenge because he is very driven.”

To sponsor Mr Wray, go to justgiving.com/Wraymondo2016