A father is to tackle the Three Peaks challenge  - and cycle 450 miles to do so -  for his daughter who died of a rare genetic condition.

Matt Vince, 33, lost three-year-old Luna-Rose in October 2022.

He and his wife Sam were supported by the Chailey Heritage Foundation, a centre for children and young people with complex neurodisabilities.

Matt, from Heathfield, said: “Chailey Heritage Foundation is the most amazing charity and it means so much to me and my family.

"The help they gave to me, my wife Sam and, most importantly, to Luna-Rose was incredible.”

Since his daughter’s death, Matt has been giving back to the charity.

Last year, he completed the Brighton Marathon in memory of Luna-Rose and raised £25,000.

Sam and Matt after the Brighton MarathonSam and Matt after the Brighton Marathon (Image: Matt Vince)

He said: "Running the Brighton Marathon last April was an incredible experience and it meant so much to Sam and myself to raise so much.

"It was just crazy - I was both exhausted and emotional.”

Now, along with 12 friends, he is taking on the Three Peaks challenge of climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon and they will be cycling from one to the other, a total of 450 miles.

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Matt said: "We both knew then we needed to do something else to help the charity - hence the Three Peaks ultra challenge, starting August 20. It really was a case of ‘what could we do next?’.

"I've been overwhelmed by the support I've received from old school friends and also Olly Stables, who owns the FFH Gym in Station Road, Hailsham, where I train.

"Suddenly, we had 13 people willing to take part. They know how much Chailey Heritage Foundation means to me and Sam.

Part of the team completing the challenge Part of the team completing the challenge (Image: Matt Vince)

"We've all been working hard but I definitely underestimated the toughness of the challenge. I can't wait, it will be very emotional and, of course, we will all do it.

"I've never climbed a mountain, but I know the views will be completely stunning. I'm really looking forward to it, we all are.

"It's been tough training for us - we all have busy family lives - but I know it will be worth it in the end. Family and friends are coming to join us for the very last part of the challenge. It will be amazing.

"I'm very grateful to the lads."

Matt has already raised more than £7,700 and is hoping to reach his target of £10,000.

Will Folkes, director of specialist services and income at Chailey Heritage Foundation, said: "We can only watch and admire the brilliant support Matt and Sam have given us.

"We were privileged to support Luna-Rose and her family through our Aquamovers service, a group providing expert therapy and socialising for children, aged one to five years old, with very complex health needs.

"They were regular attendees and Sam told me how important it was to come and talk to other parents experiencing similar situations.

"We are truly grateful to Matt and his 12 friends for undertaking this very tough challenge. Please support them if you can."