CRUK director passes through Preston during 500-mile cycle ride for Stand up to Cancer

Simon Ledsham, director of communities for Cancer Research UK, cycled from the Beatson Institute in Glasgow to the Francis Crick Institute in London via Cumbria, Lancaster and Preston as well as via Cancer Research UK’s key research institutes in Manchester, Birmingham and Cambridge - highlighting the vital role science plays in helping more people survive the disease.

The 49-year-old pedalled more than 100 miles over six days and was joined by his colleague Debbie Bradley and guest cyclists at various points.

The pair also called at a number of Cancer Research UK shops and met supporters and volunteers.

Simon said: “Each year I look to do something to raise awareness and money for Stand Up To Cancer. It was nice to meet some of the scientists and researchers who are at the sharp end of what we do, as well as the supporters and volunteers who work to help us beat cancer.”

Read other stories: WATCH: Cancer Research UK Roadshow in Preston shows how to reduce the risk of cancer and Chorley mum Stands up to Cancer in memory of her daughterStand Up To Cancer is a joint fund-raising campaign from Cancer Research UK and Channel 4. It raises money to speed up life-saving research and is supported by a host of celebrities including Davina McCall, Edith Bowman and Alan Carr.

Alison Barbuti, Cancer Research UK spokesman for the North West, said: “Research is already helping ensure more people are surviving cancer than ever before, but too many lives are still cut short. That’s why we need everyone to stand up and help take cancer out.

“Every day our scientists and researchers are working tirelessly to beat the disease.

“The more people that join the fight now, the sooner we can beat cancer for everyone.”

The funding is used for clinical trials and projects which accelerate the development of new cancer treatments and tests, to help patients and ultimately save more lives.

Stand Up To Cancer will culminate with a night of live TV on Channel 4, on Friday, October 26.

To get involved visit http://www.standuptocancer.org.ukText Cycle5, Cycle10 or Cycle20 to 70404 to donate £5, £10 or £20 to Stand Up To Cancer.