FREINDS and family of a paramedic from Kirton, who was killed on a night out, are today preparing to tackle a gruelling 186-mile charity cycle ride in his memory.

James Hodgkinson, 28, who worked as a paramedic in London, died nine days after he was hit with a single punch in an unprovoked attack, outside a bar in Nottingham last August.

James’ mother, Joan Scourfield, 41, is now preparing to ride from Kirton to Nottingham along with some of James’ friends, to raise funds for Community Service Volunteers (CSV), the charity her son volunteered for.

Mrs Scourfield, of Ipswich, said: “After his death my youngest son (Philip) wanted to do a challenge for him – we’ve been planning it ever since then.

“Quite a few of James’ friends are doing it as well – they have been so supportive, it shows how much he was loved.”

The family have put on events since James’ death to raise money for CSV and a recent quiz night held in the town helped raise more than �700 for the charity.

Mrs Scourfield picked up the bike she will be doing the trip on yesterday from Alford Brothers, in Felixstowe, where she was given a discount. Her colleagues at Ipswich Hospital also helped to raise funds to buy the new bike.

Mrs Scourfield was quick to thank everyone who has helped her since her son’s untimely death.

She added: “When he was first hit it was a rollercoaster because it was nine days – after that it’s just a fight to carry on with your own life.

“The support from his friends and my own family has been fantastic.”

Mrs Scourfield will set off on her trip on August 3.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/joan-scourfield-

n Have you raised money in memory of a loved one? Write to Your Letters, Ipswich Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich IP4 1AN, or e-mail starletters@archant.co.uk