A man from Wallasey is taking on a 40-mile paddle board challenge down the River Dee in support of a children’s charity who care for his nephew.

Neil Campbell, 38, wanted to support his local children’s hospice, Claire House, who look after his 10-year-old nephew, Luke.

Neil is currently training for the two-day challenge which will take place in July.

Speaking to the Globe, Neil said: “I’m new to paddle boarding so I’m training with SUPWirral, who have been fantastic support.

“Weather and river conditions can change throughout the day, so it’s a big challenge, but something that is important to me.

“My nephew Luke is my inspiration.”

Luke was born in 2011 and has been supported by Claire House throughout his life for a complex heart condition.

Neil said: “Words cannot describe the support Claire House have given to Luke and his family.

“They have given Luke opportunities that he would never have experienced, and his parents have received ongoing emotional support which is indescribable.

Wirral Globe:

“I am so passionate about this charity, which is why I wanted to take on this challenge for them.”

Claire House Children’s Hospice supports children and their families across Liverpool, Wirral and Cheshire.

Event Fundraiser Mark Pearson said: “Covid-19 didn’t stop the vital work of Claire House but it did make it much more difficult.

“We continued to provide end of life and emergency care to babies and children in the local community and be there for families going through the toughest of times.

"It was also important that we were there for families who were shielding and desperately needed our support.

“Claire House is a lifeline to families like Luke’s and we’re proud that we continued our work throughout the pandemic.

“Now that restrictions are easing, it’s incredible to have the support of people doing amazing things and raising money to keep our doors open now and in the future.

“We really appreciate what Neil is doing.”

Neil is hoping to raise £1,000 through his 40-mile paddling challenge and has managed to raise £674 out of his target already.