Seven friends from Hertfordshire have successfully completed a 110km charity bike ride in Spain to honour their beloved friend, Daniel Wayne, who tragically passed away from a heart attack at the age of 43.

The group, known as "Wayne’s Boys", raised nearly £50,000 for the British Heart Foundation (BHF) through their efforts.

Daniel, an IT consultant, who was a member of Borehamwood and Elstree Synagogue and a dedicated West Ham supporter, died unexpectedly in May 2021, just three days after being admitted to hospital. His sudden passing left a significant impact on his friends and family.

Ralph Sherman, one of the riders and a close friend of Daniel for nearly 30 years, reflected on the emotional journey. “It was a very bittersweet day,” he said. “We came together to share memories of Daniel and celebrate his life, but it also reminded us of his absence.”

The ride took place along the Senda Litoral coastal path in the Costa del Sol, an area Daniel frequently visited with his wife, Mel, and their two children, Zach, 13 and Livvy, 11.

Daniel Wayne tragically passed away from a heart attack at the age of 43. Pictured here with his wife, Mel, and their two children, Zach and Livvy

Among the riders were Daniel’s childhood friends Paul Doctors and Daniel Rabin, as well as Gavin Berwitz, Jon Posener, Antony Solomon, and Olly Weingarten, all of whom had known him since their university days at Manchester.

Throughout the ride, the group faced challenging terrain and extreme heat, cycling for over 11 hours. Despite being novice cyclists, they were proud of their accomplishment and the cause they were supporting.

“Daniel was a larger-than-life character who always brought people together,” said Antony, 47. “His death has left a huge hole in our lives. We’ve shared so many important moments together, and it’s heartbreaking to think he won’t be there for future milestones.”

The BHF, which funds research into heart and circulatory diseases, praised the group for their efforts. Nicola Reavey, a BHF fundraising manager, commented, “The incredible amount of money raised in Daniel's honor is a testament to the impact he had on those around him.

This donation will help empower scientists in their search for new ways to prevent tragic losses like Daniel's.”

In total, the friends have received over 600 individual donations, reflecting Daniel’s far-reaching connections in the community. Donations can still be made online at justgiving.com/team/waynesboys or by clicking here