THE parents of Violet-Grace Youens, who was killed in a hit-and-run almost a year ago, have announced the date for the second annual bike ride to thank the hospitals who tried to save her life.

Last year, four months after four-year-old’s death, her mum and dad Becky and Glenn, as well as members of the St Helens community, organised a bike ride to raise funds for Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and Whiston Hospital. The event was called Ride 4 Violet-Grace.

Hundreds of bikers, riders and cyclists headed out in convoy in her memory, raising more than £13,000.

And this year they are once again asking the community to join them in celebrating their daughter’s life in the second Ride 4 Violet-Grace event on Sunday, July 22.

St Helens Star: Violet-Grace Youens

Glenn and Becky, from Eccleston, said: “We were truly overwhelmed with the support shown to us last year; from the people riding alongside us, to the spectators along the route cheering us on, down to the businesses who supported the event.

“Violet always wanted to help others, and wanted to be a nurse, doctor and school teacher when she grew up.

"We were overwhelmed by the support that was shown for Ride-4Violet last year and we’re excited to announce the event will take place this year.

"We just want keep Violet’s memory alive by doing positive things, rather than focusing on the individuals who are to blame for Violet’s death”

The event will once again be hosted at the Saints’ Totally Wicked Stadium and will see both cyclists and motorcyclists riding 10-miles to Whiston Hospital.

Motorcyclists will then continue to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital before arriving back at the stadium, where a fun day will await riders, families and the community.

Representatives from Merseyside Police, St Helens Council Road Safety Team, North West Ambulance Service, NHS Blood and Transplant Team, Merseyside and Cheshire Blood Bikes and Merseyside Fire Service will be at the event supporting the ride.

Those taking part will have to pay £5 donation per bike, with sponsor forms available soon.

The funds raised will go towards Violet-Grace’s Gift, a charity supporting organ donation.

For more information contact violetgrace.gift@gmail.com.