Charity challenge in memory of popular Harper Adams student

Posted 13 May 2014

Harper Adams University student, Holly Bishop, is leading a fundraising campaign for a children’s cancer charity in memory of her brother Guy, who passed away earlier this year.

22-year-old Guy was studying BSc (Hons) Rural Enterprise and Land Management (REALM) at Harper Adams when he was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme – an aggressive form of brain cancer.

Holly, who chose to study the same course as Guy, is joining a group of more than 10 students to raise money for CLIC Sargent through a series of exciting charity challenges. This includes a sky dive on July 19 and extreme obstacle course race, Tough Mudder on September 13.

20-year-old Holly from Hockerton in Nottinghamshire, said: “Guy lost his battle with brain cancer just eight months after his diagnosis. His bravery and strength during this time is something which has been instilled into not only me and my family, but into so many who knew him.

“He never once complained and maintained his outlook on life and ‘cracked on’. This makes me the proudest sister in the word.

“CLIC Sargent, along with Macmillian Cancer Support, was very supportive in giving Guy financial, practical and emotional support. They also spoke to the university so that I could extend my assignment deadlines.

“I hope that by completing these challenges we will raise as much money as possible in appreciation of the work that the charity does, and to help extend their care further, to more families.”

Holly has already raised more than £4,600 for the charity by selling wrist bands embellished with Guy’s favourite phrase, ‘Crack on’, and by arranging Guy’s Night with fellow students– a celebration in the Harper Adams bar with entertainment from DJ Ray Foxx and singer Rachel Collier.

Around 800 guests attended the evening, which included drinks promotions, a BBQ and a pre-celebration in the Queen Mother Hall on campus.

Joining Holly is 22-year-old Hamish Byers who shared a house with Guy in the second year of his studies.

Hamish from Brampton, Cumbria, also studies REALM. He said: “I chose to be involved after Holly sent a group of us a message asking if we wanted to take part in some charity challenges.

“I’m absolutely petrified of the sky dive, yet excited for Tough Mudder! But really, I’m just pleased to be able to contribute to such a great cause and hopefully we will smash our £10,000 target.”

Whilst at Harper Adams, Guy contributed greatly to the Students’ Union. He was officially elected as Website Officer, but took a great pride in ensuring that the lighting in the bar was the best that it could be for legendary Wednesday nights.

He was also a talented photographer, videographer and set designer – constructing the set for the first Harper Adams ‘Take Me Out’ event, which has since become a permanent fixture in the entertainments calendar.

Guy helped to initiate the Scuba Diving Club and was a keen member of the Field Sports Society and his local Young Farmers Club in Tuxford. He also enjoyed riding the family’s horses and had a great appreciation for music.

Holly added: “Guy touched the heart of so many with his huge smile and his gentlemanly manner. He would take any small idea and make it his task to put on the best show for everyone.

“Although very successful at his degree course, Guy could turn his hand to most things, he was just so multi-talented.”

CLIC Sargent is the UK’s leading cancer charity for children and young people, and their families.

Holly and Hamish are joined by Kat Bliss, Sophie Bacon, Matthias Charlton, Emily Taylor, Ashton Redman, Seb James and Mick Murphy. To donate, visit Holly's Just Giving page.