FAMED bassist Peter Hook, who co-founded Joy Division and New Order, has thrown his support behind a Bradford man who has set out to raise awareness about epilepsy. 

Elliott Horan, 31, who has epilepsy, is cycling 100 miles in four days to raise money for charity and to show how keeping fit can help with the depression and anxiety that often accompany the condition.

He set off yesterday - the International Day for Epilepsy – and is joined on the ride by his dad Chris and friend Nick Whittaker, a radiographer in the NHS.

“I can’t cycle on my own in case I have a seizure on route,” explains Elliott.

“I have about four seizures a month and never know when they are going to happen, so cannot risk riding on the roads. Instead, we will be riding on the Greenways which are traffic free so much safer. And obviously my dad and Nick know what to do if I have a seizure.”

Hook, who co-founded legendary post-punk band Joy Division in 1976, has sent a message of support to Elliott. The band's lead singer, Ian Curtis, had epilepsy and suffered from depression.

The musician said: “I was heartened to hear that Elliot’s getting out there to help and inspire those suffering like himself with the burden of epilepsy. He has my full support and sincere best wishes for his endeavours. I do hope the weather holds out.”

Elliott added: “Depression is a big side effect of epilepsy for me and I know that it affects many other people too. But I find that if I keep myself fit and take regular exercise it helps me to feel better.”

He is raising money for the UK charity, the Epilepsy Society, as part of their Challenge 100 event which is encouraging people to complete 100 miles in 100 days and raise £100 to support their research and helpline for people with epilepsy.

The event is running until April 10 and you can find out how you can take part at www.epilepsysociety.org.uk/challenge-100 Participants can run, walk, cycle, static cycle, hop, skip or jump and can either compete individually or as part of a team.

Katrina Jones, Community Fundraising Manager at the Epilepsy Society said: “We have been overwhelmed by the number of people like Elliott who are signing up to raise funds for us.

"Our fundraising income has been hit hard with so many traditional events being cancelled due to the pandemic. So it is really heartening to see people stepping out to raise the funds that will support our helpline and our vital research. We wish Elliott all the best for his bike ride.”