GWENT finance expert Debra Hughes and consultancy director Ade Parrock are saddling up in support of St David’s Hospice Care.

Debra and Ade, of Griffithstown, near Pontypool, are not only taking part in the Taff Trail Bike Ride but are supporting the event through their Cwmbran-based business Debra Hughes Financial Consultancy Ltd.

The Taff Trail Bike Ride 2016, which is being held on Saturday, September 17, covers 50 miles from Brecon to Cardiff or there is a shorter 25 miles’ route from Merthyr.

Debra said they had been spurred on to support the charity after the death of her mother, Ivy, and the couple’s subsequent visit to St David’s Hospice Care.

Debra said: “We understand the importance of emotional support when a loved one is faced with a life limiting illness which is no longer curable. Unfortunately, my Mum was in this position back in 2011 and although she was given the most amazing support and care at the hospital, it was difficult for us to stay with her constantly as there were no facilities for us to stay overnight and no comfortable facilities for us to take a respite.

“St David’s Hospice Care provides facilities to support the families and friends in difficult times and we were able witness to these facilities when a close family member’s Mum was taken to the Hospice. The daughter was able to stay at St David’s Hospice while supporting her mum in a place that she describes as like 'being at home', in quiet peaceful surroundings.”

Ade said: “St David’s Hospice Care is a perfect match for our business as they care and provide support for their patients and families which is essential for both patients and their families during a very difficult time.

“We have built our business on strong beliefs, the main one being that our clients are our priority and their satisfaction with our service to them is essential. We achieve this by regular contact and support and as a result of this approach we have built our business on recommendations for the care and support we provide to our clients.

“We are supporting the Taff Trail Bike Ride because we understand the importance of being physically active. We are participating because we love the way that this event brings everyone together through some of the most beautiful rural areas in Wales, all in support of this amazing charity.”

They said: “The event will be the first time we have been on a bike together for many years but challenging ourselves and getting out of our comfort zone is very important to us both and this bike ride will certainly do that.”

Franca Nigro, of St David’s Hospice Care, said: “We’re thrilled that Debra and Ade are giving such wonderful support to this year’s Taff Trail Bike Ride and wish them well in their training ahead of the event.”