Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride - Sunday July 13th

The Christie Hospital is looking for volunteers to get on their bikes to raise cash for the fight against cancer in its annual Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride.

Taking place for the 22nd time, the event raised a record £210,000 last year - and this year the charity is keen to do even better.

Starting at Manchester city centre's Albert Square on Sunday July 17, the 60-mile route takes entrants through leafy country lanes in Leigh, Haigh Hall, Eccleston, Preston and Kirkham, through to the finish line on the prom at Blackpool.

Christie events programme manager, Jenny Haskey, said: "We want as many people as possible to get pedaling and support our cause. Every mile completed will help raise much-needed funds for research, treatment and equipment at the Christie Hospital and this is a fantastic opportunity to have fun and plenty of exercise as well as raise vital money for our work."

The annual Manchester to Blackpool bike ride is Christie's most successful sponsored event. Last year keen cyclists including children, pensioners and disabled athletes were amongst the thousands who completed the ride.

This year, every individual or team raising money for the appeal will be awarded a certificate on completion and a medal if more than £25 is raised. There is no minimum sponsorship required to take part, but Christie's encourages entrants to raise as much money as possible. All entrants must pay a £15 entrance fee.

For more information on the bike ride or for a registration form contact Christie's appeals office on 0161 446 3988 or visit www.christies.org/extras/bikeride/bikeride.html