CANCER patients are set to benefit from a show of pedal power by three young friends.

Schoolboys James Biley, William Hough and Josh Collins cycled 12 laps of a circuit round their local village of Piddlehinton to raise nearly £400 for the Fortuneswell Cancer Trust at Dorset County Hospital.

Ten-year-old James was inspired to take on the challenge, which totalled around ten miles, as his dad received treatment at the ward.

The St Mary’s Middle School Puddletown pupil said: “When I was told dad had cancer I had seen all the stuff on television about it and how people give money.

“I went down to a rounders match at the local park by my house and went round with a sponsorship form for my bike ride, I got a few people to donate and also got family as well.”

William, also 10, said the ride was a tough challenge but something they enjoyed knowing it was for such a good cause.

He said: “It was quite hard work but it was really fun.”

His friend James added: “I didn’t get tired at all.”

James and William went to the Fortuneswell Unit at the Dorchester hospital to hand over a cheque for £380.

James’ dad Dr Francis Biley, a former governor at Dorset County Hospital with 40 years experience in nursing, was diagnosed with cancer in August.

He was full of praise for the way he had been treated at the Fortuneswell Unit and the work staff on the ward carry out.

Dr Biley said: “The care here has been exemplary.”

Dr David Evans, chairman of the Fortuneswell Cancer Trust, said the work of the unit was boosted greatly by the committed efforts of fundraisers like James, William and Josh.

Dr Evans said: “It just demonstrates again that this donation has happened because of the quality of care that the unit gives.