THEY are set to spend their summer cycling more than 1,000 miles to help give young cancer patients the holidays they need.

Les Cunliffe and John Higginson from the Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary Club are preparing to ride from Lands End to John O'Groats in just three weeks next month.

They hope to raise £10,000 for the Daily Echo-backed Youth Cancer Trust, which provides free holidays for young people with cancer at the charity's Bournemouth retreat.

Co-founder of the Trust Brenda Clark set up the charity in 1997 in memory of her only daughter Tracy, who lost her battle with cancer at just 21 years old.

"I can think of no finer cause than helping young people so tragically stricken," said Les.

Brenda added: "It's a fantastic distance and a great challenge. Every mile they cycle they will be helping bring some more fun and normality into the lives of young cancer patients who are desperate for a break away."

For more information or to sponsor Les and John contact Les on 01202 828343 or the Youth Cancer Trust on 01202 763591. You can also sponsor the riders online by logging on to www.justgiving.com/yct-lejog

First published: June 28