A WEIGHTLOSS challenge has fuelled a brothers' bike ride in memory of their dad.

Northwich brothers John and Andrew Palin, aged 32 and 27, are embarking on a 300-mile London to Paris cycle in July.

The duo are raising money for Asthma UK in tribute to their dad Stephen, who was only 42 when he died after suffering an asthma attack in 1999.

For John the challenge is also about losing pounds in weight while gaining pounds in cash.

"It's weird, I look at old pictures and think what on earth was I doing?" he said.

"I feel so much better now and have so much energy."

John has already lost more than 8st in the past 12 months and aims to lost 10st in time for the bike challenge.

"I was losing weight initially for Andy's wedding just through healthy eating and going to the gym," he said.

"We both go to Dave's Gym every morning at 5.30am.

"Initially I just wanted to lose a couple of stone for the wedding just to look a bit better but I got bitten by the bug."

John bought himself a road bike in November and has already clocked up more than 1,200 miles.

"I enjoy just getting out," he said.

"It just takes everything away and you don't think about anything apart from getting up the next hill.

"I just enjoy the challenge."

It was an easy decision for the brothers, both dads themselves, to raise money in memory of their dad.

"It gives us something to aim at," John said.

"We just want to make sure we're doing it and doing it well."

To sponsor the brothers visit doitforcharity.com/palin or text SPAL78 and the amount you wish to donate to 70070.