North West Cancer Research is calling on cyclists of all abilities to sign up to its annual Cycle of Hope, to help fund vital research.
The event, which is now in its fourth year, takes place on Sunday 22nd September, taking in the countryside of Merseyside and Lancashire.
Participants can choose between two routes – 60km and 60 miles long – with both routes starting in Southport, before completing a loop of beautiful countryside terrain, including the landscapes of Rivington Pike and Parbold Hill.
The Cycle of Hope has so far raised more than £80,000, helping to fund research into tackling the cause, finding the cure and improving the care for cancer.
Among those taking part this year is Dale Vimalachandran, a clinician and cancer researcher based in Chester and Liverpool, who specialises in colorectal cancer.
Dale’s University of Liverpool-based research is supported by North West Cancer Research, and one of the reasons he has decided to take part in the Cycle of Hope is to show his appreciation for the organisation.
Dale, who is completing the 60-mile route, said:
“I am taking part in the Cycle of Hope to support North West Cancer Research and show thanks.
“I can write emails, and have written letters thanking them, but an act of doing something for the charity feels like the perfect way to demonstrate just how thankful I am.
“I am a fairly keen cycler and go out on my bike a few times a week. I also often cycle to work at this time of year and have been wearing my Cycle of Hope top when I do so!
“I thought that if I am going to challenge myself, I may as well go all the way and do the longer route!
“I used to live near Southport, where part of the route runs, but haven’t really cycled around the area, so it will be nice to have the opportunity to do that now.
“The Cycle of Hope is a fantastic way to pay back the community, and raise the profile of North West Cancer Research.”
Overall, cancer rates in the North West are 25% higher than the rest of the country – an issue that North West Cancer Research is dedicated to tackling.
Alastair Richards, CEO of North West Cancer Research, said:
“We look forward to welcoming some new participants, as well as some familiar faces to this year’s Cycle of Hope.
“Our mission is to help create a cancer-free future, and we are so grateful for everyone that supports our goal by taking part in, or sponsoring participants of the Cycle of Hope.”
To find out more about North West Cancer Research and how to get involved with fundraising, visit: www.nwcr.org
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