A North East family are set to complete a 191 mile bike ride in memory of their much-loved dad who suddenly passed away following a heart attack.

Colin Breckon from Middlesbrough was preparing to take on a mega 191 mile bike journey from Edinburgh to Tynemouth this year in a bid to raise funds for the neonatal unit at The James Cook University Hospital.

However, the 53-year-old dad of two tragically passed away on July 23 following a sudden heart attack.

Twins Ted and Oscar.Twins Ted and Oscar. (Image: SOUTH TEES HOSPITALS NHS FOUNDATION TRUST)

Now, his wife Andrea Breckon and their twins Ted and Oscar are set to ride the route in his name to raise funds for the unit which, in 2016, saved the lives of their sons who were born 12 weeks premature.

Andrea said: “The time spent in the unit as a parent is both stressful and worrying, but seeing how the nursing, healthcare and medical team look after and care for every child on the unit and support the parents made our journey and experience of the unit very reassuring and that they were in safe hands when we weren’t with the boys.

“I am sure Colin would be proud of our boys who are doing so much for the hospital unit.”

This is not the first time that the couple have raised funds for the unit.

The family have previously organised a host of fundraising activities over several years including the Mile to Marathon, Easter and Christmas raffles and many more.

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Neonatal nurse consultant Lynne Paterson added: “Andrea and Colin as well as Ted and Oscar are all very well known to the neonatal unit staff and over the years, and we have been extremely grateful for all their fundraising efforts.

“We were all so sad to hear of Col’s (Colin) passing and our condolences go out to the family.

“It comes as no surprise to us that Andrea and the boys wish to continue that spirit of generosity despite having had the worst news imaginable. I know that I speak for all the staff when I say that we are all supporting them and will be cheering them on as they undertake their challenge.”