Teachers cycle towards a cure

Mr Lowe said: "I am honoured to be able to try, in some small way, to support a pupil that I know myself and many members of staff see as a source of real inspiration.

"Her courage and dignity in coping with FOP, coupled with her amazing sense of humour, help keep all of our minor problems in perspective.

"I have only two real ambitions regarding the charity bike ride - the first is to raise as much money as possible for FOP research, and the second is to arrive in Brighton in one piece."

FOP causes bone to form in muscles, tendons, ligaments and other connective tissue.

Bridges and ribbons of bone develop across the joints, progressively restricting movement and forming a second skeleton that imprisons the body in bone.

Any kind of trauma can trigger bone growth, even something as slight as bumping into someone or falling over.

It leaves sufferers in discomfort and unable to move the affected joints and muscles.

All funds raised in the trip will go to Oxford University, where a team of scientists are searching for a treatment for the condition.

Seanie said: "I would like to thank Mr Lowe and Ms Mure for helping raise money towards FOP.

"I know that the professors are extremely grateful for any donations that are made towards research.

"Every fundraiser and every donation plays a vital role in finding a cure for FOP."

Over the past three years, Sion Manning has held a number of fundraisers including sales and sponsored events, to help raise money.

For more information on the condition, visit www.fopaction.co.uk.