Two years after his father died in a Barnet hospice, a man is cycling from London to Marseilles in his memory.

Patrick Lisoire, 36, set off on the first leg of the gruelling 900 mile journey, to show his gratitude and raise money for the North London Hospice, which cared for his father Jean-Pierre, 81, in his final weeks.

Mr Lisore said: “For those with terminal cancer, and for their friends and family, when it can seem like all hope is lost, places like North London Hospice are truly invaluable. They offer dignity, peace, unceasing support and a level of care that goes far beyond the call of duty.

“To my Dad, it meant peace of mind in knowing that he was in the very best place possible to see out his final few weeks."

Mr Lisore added he had decided on Marseilles because that was where his father had spent his formative years, and was a place close to his heart.

“I set off from the front door of my dad’s family home in West Hill Way in Whetstone and will dip a toe in the Mediterranean on May 31, the second anniversary of his death.

“I’m looking forward to it. There is a bit of trepidation, but when I suffer any discomfort I will think of the dedication of staff at the North London Hospice and the hardships they go through every day.”

Mr Lisoire, who is cycling with his friend Guy Mansfield, has already raised more than £3,040.

Staff and volunteers, including nurses who had cared for Patrick's father, gathered outside the hospice in Woodside Avenue this morning to see the pair set off on their trip.

North London Hospice fundraising director Robin Langrishe said he was full of admiration for the pair.

Mr Langrishe said: "We were delighted to see Patrick and Guy off this morning on what is going to be a very special and personal challenge.

"Many people don't realise North London Hospice is a charity - we rely on the fantastic support of thousands of individuals like Patrick and Guy every year to continue providing specialist palliative care to the communities of Enfield, Barnet and Haringey. We are therefore extremely grateful for the money they have raised and wish them a safe trip."

To sponsor Mr Lisoire visit: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/LondonToMarseille