A DEDICATED group of family and friends will be pedalling from London to Paris in memory of a Highcliffe woman who died following an epileptic seizure.

Katie Mann, below, 27, passed away suddenly in December last year after an epileptic episode at her home in Highcliffe.

The popular and well-loved young woman, who had lived with epilepsy for 14 years, was due to marry her fiancé Leroy Spreadbury in her dream wedding in May.

Katie, a former Highcliffe St Mark’s primary pupil and Brockenhurst College student, was severely dyslexic but still achieved four GCSEs and went to college to study a course in childcare.

She was working as a carer at Quaker House nursing home in New Milton before she died.

Now, her parents Richard and Gill, their son Ben and Katie’s fiancé Leroy, are joining forces with close friends Julia Badley, Laura Badley, Anna Badley and Tim Miles, to cycle 279-miles in Katie’s memory this August.

They will be raising money for Epilepsy Action and have already collected more than £3,500.

Katie’s father Richard said: “Katie’s last year was her happiest. Ever since she was about five all she wanted to do was get married and have children.

“She wasn’t a career girl so ever since Leroy proposed, that was it.”

He added: “The idea for the cycle ride came from Gill’s close friend Julia.

“It’s not just about the fundraising though. We want to raise awareness. People should know what to do if someone has a seizure.

“It could save someone’s life.”

To sponsor the group go to virginmoneygiving.com/topariswithkate or text 70070 with the message Fork80 and the amount you wish to donate.

Sponsors can also send cheques payable to Epilepsy Action to 84 Smugglers Lane North, Highcliffe, BH23 4NL.