A FATHER whose daughter underwent open heart surgery two and a half years ago is taking on a kayak crusade to help raise money for the British Heart Foundation.

Molly Barclay was found to be ill by chance when she was just aged three.

Mum Amy took Molly to the doctor when she had tonsillitis and discovered Molly had a heart murmur.

The Cotford St Luke School pupil had regular check-ups at Musgrove Park Hospital when it was discovered there was a lump of muscle in Molly’s heart and as a result she would need open heart surgery.

While Molly is doing well, the family take part in the Wear It Beat It Coffee morning each year to help raise funds for the charity.

Dad Stephen is undertaking a kayak challenge next Saturday from Taunton to Bridgwater and back, starting at 4am, covering 29.4miles.

This is despite having undergone two major back surgeries.

They haven't stopped Steve's aim to complete the challenge, which he is expecting to take 12 to 15 hours.

The family will also be holding a cake and coffee morning on Friday, February ,5 at 1 St Lukes Mews, Cotford St Luke to help raise more money.

If you would like to sponsor Stephen, visit www.justgiving.com/kayak-crusade