The uncle of a young girl whose life was saved by a brain surgeon is set to thank him with a 127-mile sponsored bike ride along the Leeds Liverpool canal.

Phil Holden, 38, and four friends, will take on the challenge to raise money for Bingley-based charity, Andrea’s Gift.

Consultant neurosurgeon Dr Paul Chumas, a founder member of the charity, operated on Mr Holden’s niece, Rachel Barnes, when she was left fighting for life after falling and banging her head.

Mr Holden will be joined by four friends, Mike Hodgson, brothers Andy and Phil Renshaw and Chris Swann, on the ride on September 3 and hope to raise at least £1,000 for the charity.