IN MEMORY of a much-loved colleague, a vets practice in Malmesbury raised more than £45,000 for a charity that funds Pulmonary Fibrosis research.

Tim Hirst, who was a farm animal specialist, died from the disease in July and his co-workers at The George Vets Group spent months organising a charity cycle ride for charity.

Around 240 riders turned up to the GVG Sportive event where they could choose to pedal around the 35km course or the 100km one. Overall, £47,271 was raised for Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis.

Tom Oxtoby, Tim's friend and colleague said: "It was a stunning amount considering our initial target was an ambitious £3000. We all felt the whole day had been a fitting tribute to a man who meant so much to so many people and to the family he has left behind.”

Louise Wright, CEO of Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis, said: “We are enormously grateful to The George Vets for the funds raised for Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis. Their commitment to raise these much needed funds for other people with pulmonary fibrosis is an incredible testament to their colleague and friend. We are a growing community of patients, families, researchers and healthcare professionals striving to find a cure for pulmonary fibrosis so that everyone affected by the disease has a better future. We provide personalised support to patients and families that these funds will go directly towards that.”

For more information on the charity, go to www.actionpulmonaryfibrosis.org