FIFTY cyclists will be riding to Blackpool in memory of their friend who was killed in a brawl at an Eid celebration nine years ago.

Zhen Asghar, from Lostock, was stabbed in the Victoria Building near the Printworks in Manchester and died in hospital two days later aged 18.

And now a group of cyclists from the Heaton and Lostock areas will be riding to Blackpool in his memory.

The group will set off on their 38-mile journey from Queens Park on Sunday, March 18.

Money raised from sponsorships will go towards SKT Welfare, which carries out humanitarian aid work overseas.

Sufyan Hussain, one of the riders, said: “We wanted to do something for charity in memory of our brother, Zhen Asghar.

“We decided to do something that would be impactful for people in desperate need. We live in levels of comfort that some people can only dream of so we wanted to give back and do what we can.

“Our plan was to do something that’ll bring the community together with a buzz and excitement that will raise as much money as possible.

“We’d heard of SKT and the amazing work they do and we knew they’ll be able to provide the structure to support the people in need.

“Most of those taking part aren’t cyclists but we wanted to make it a challenge and it comes with the added bonus of getting everyone fitter and healthier. We welcome anyone who wants to join us on the bike ride and we urge everyone to support us by donating.”

The group also includes Yousaf Ellahi, Khuram Shehzad, Ikram Khan, Farooq Ali, Ali Abbas, Wasqar Khan, Aqib-Hamid, Sheddy Aslam, Kash Khan, Nav Anwar, Jav Khan, Faisal Hussain and Was Saleem.

They are aiming to raise £10,000 and also welcome cyclists who want to take part.

The description on the Just Giving page states: “Cycling from Bolton to Blackpool may be tough, but it is not as tough as waking up every day knowing that you might not have any food to eat, or water to drink for the rest of the day.

“This is why we are coming together on Sunday, March 18 — because we want to do something for those in need and provide food and water to as many people as possible living in Syria, Palestine, Somalia, Bangladesh and Pakistan.”

To donate, go to justgiving.com/SKTBolton2Blackpool