Fundraiser after tourist stabbing

Lavern Ritch was on a two-week holiday in the US when he died

A fundraising 12-hour exercise session is taking place to celebrate the life of a fitness instructor stabbed to death on holiday in the United States.

Lavern Ritch, 37, from Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, had been visiting friends in Margate, New Jersey, when he was killed by a single stab wound to the heart.

The money raised will go to a new charity, the Lavern Ritch Foundation.

The foundation aims to improve the lives of disabled adults and children who suffer from mobility diseases.

Its work will range from providing group and one-to-one swimming lessons, funding for basic swimming items and teaching aids, and funding towards a basketball and all-weather pitch.

The challenge is taking place at the Laguna Health and Spa in Cardiff, where Mr Ritch used to work.

Amongst those taking part are Sarah Taig, a personal trainer who was Mr Ritch's partner.

We want the day to be fun in keeping with the way Lavern lived his life Laguna Health and Spa manager Alina Coppell

Among the events planned is a 12-hour continuous Keiserkick (spinning) marathon, where the fitness team and staff will keep the bikes going from 0800 to 2000 GMT in fancy dress.

Members willl be invited to join in the fundraising marathon for a two hour Keiserkick class at 1800 GMT.

'Ray of light'

Alongside the spinning marathon there was to be a sponsored yoga class for an hour-and-a-half.

Laguna Health and Spa manager Alina Coppell said all the staff were involved.

"It's going to be an exhausting but fun day and is a fantastic way to raise money for the charity so that they can continue Lavern's good work and passion.

"We want the day to be fun in keeping with the way Lavern lived his life and I'm sure the sight of our team in superhero costumes would have caused him to laugh!" she added.

Mr Ritch, who appeared on TV gameshow Gladiators and had been voted one of the most eligible bachelors in the UK, was described by his family as "our sunshine, our ray of light".

Mr Ritch was on a night out with friends on 12 August when he was stabbed in the chest.

It has been reported he tried to intervene in a fight and was stabbed.

A man has been remanded, charged with aggravated manslaughter.