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A Longton granddad is preparing to cycle 60 miles for a Preston-based hospice.
Harry Bond, 75, gets in the saddle for the sixth time to do the Manchester to Blackpool ride in July.
Bond, who is a grandfather of six, says age is not a factor in stopping people raising money.
He said: “I really enjoy the day – there’s a great atmosphere and I like that you get to meet lots of different people.
“It’s great that St Catherine’s make it as easy as possible to take part too – they organise transport over to Manchester with your bike and then back again from Blackpool. Some of the riders do the full distance on their bike, but I know not to push
“Although we’ve not had personal experience of the hospice as a family, we know friends who have had loved ones cared for by St Catherine’s and they tell us about what a fantastic place it is.
“Taking part in the bike ride is a way of doing my bit to support a good, local cause. I always find that when I’m collecting sponsorship people are happy to donate – I’m very grateful for their support and generosity.”
The hospice has a number of places left for any riders wanting to raise cash for the hospice and take on the challenge.
Norman Cutler, senior fundraiser at the hospice, said: “We’ve got just a few last places to fill and would love to hear from cyclists who would like to sign up
“Not only will they have completed a fantastic feat, they will also be raising vital funds to support the work of St Catherine’s in our community.”
The ride takes place on Sunday 13 July and starts at Old Trafford and finishes at the South Promenade.
Bond said: “For anyone who is thinking about it, I’d certainly recommend it.
“It’s an enjoyable day out and there’s a fantastic sense of achievement at the end. I certainly hope to be taking part again next year and for as long as I can!”
Registration for the ride is available until Wednesday 2 July and anyone interested in riding for St Catherine’s should visit the hospice website or call 01772 629171.
Are you doing the ride? Have you done it before? Let us know in the comments below