PRIMARY school pupil Daniel Appleton and his mum Dawn will put their pedal power to the test to raise money for an autism therapy centre.

They are taking part in the 13-mile Great Manchester Cycle in June, which starts and ends at the Etihad Stadium, home to Manchester City.

Daniel, 11, attends Weaver Forest Primary School, and mum Dawn is the charity support manager for Barnton-based Christian Community Ministries.

The organisation supports The Hope Centre, an autism centre and special primary school in the Romanian city of Cluj, and the bike ride will be raising funds for the centre.

Dawn hopes to match her husband Tim’s achievement last year in raising £750 for CCM by taking part in the 76-mile Cheshire Cat cycle challenge.

Tim is a mortgage advisor at Barclays Bank in Northwich, and his fundraising efforts were match-funded by the bank to double the total to £1,500.

“I don’t cycle, and Tim bought me a bike for Christmas to inspire me for the event,” said Dawn.

“I have managed seven miles in one go so far, and have cycled to the shops a few times.

“Daniel cycles to school every day and runs as well, and Tim will be my road crew on the day.

“There is no question of us not finishing the course, even if we’re the last ones over the line.”

The Great Manchester Cycle takes place on Sunday, June 29 in Manchester and the neighbouring borough of Trafford.

“I’m taking part to support Daniel, and am really looking forward to it,” said Dawn.

“There will be so many people raising money for good causes, and there will be a fabulous atmosphere.”

Daniel has been to Romania twice, the last time in October, and helped to paint and decorate rooms at The Hope Centre in 2012.

To sponsor Daniel visit mydonate.bt.com and search for fundraiser Dawn Appleton.

If anyone wants to join the cycling event in aid of CCM the website is greatcycle.org. Sponsor forms are available from Dawn at the CCM office.