I am proud to be participating in Tour de 4 2026, a cycling event launched by Sir Chris Hoy following his Stage 4 prostate cancer diagnosis. Having lived with prostate cancer for five years and undergone many treatments, I know we need to do more to fight this disease, for everyone who may face it in the future.

I understand the importance of supporting Sir Chris Hoy's fundraising efforts, not only to raise money for research but also to campaign for routine prostate cancer testing for men at the appropriate age., this cause is very close to my heart. Mandatory prostate cancer testing makes sense and will save lives so writing to your Member of Parliament (MP) and asking them to support routine prostate cancer testing might just help bring it about, a simple test carried out at the right time has the potential to save thousands of lives and save the NHS many thousands in treatments not being required.

I am currently well and enjoying life. I have decided not to retire and continue with my business, Mintronics Ltd which continues to thrive, I still enjoy helping customers embrace new CAD and 3D engineering technologies.

Cycling remains one of my greatest passions, and I'm really looking forward to taking part in the Tour de 4, that was until I saw the 56 mile route and the famous hill climb called Tak-Ma-Doon, it rises over a distance of four miles. I need donations to get me over the top to the next feeding station. It will certainly be a challenge. I remember reading about last year's event and seeing that even well-known professional sports people found it demanding!

Beyond the Tour de 4 itself, cycling has played a huge part in my journey with cancer. It has helped keep me physically fit throughout treatment, but just as importantly, it has given me the mental strength, focus and determination to keep moving forward.

I remain determined to stay active and make the most of every day. Cancer does not define who I am, it has simply reinforced how precious life is.

In many ways I am very lucky, throughout the last five years I had my family with their love, encouragement and unwavering support which has carried me through.

Spending time with Edwina my children and grandchildren means more to me than ever, and they remind me every day why continuing this fight is so important.

I am especially grateful that my daughter Sarah and son Rob will be riding alongside me on the Tour de 4. making sure I take plenty of well-earned coffee stops! They're both experienced cyclists, and I couldn't wish for better company on this journey.

All funds raised through my GoFundMe page go directly to Prostate Cancer UK. During the past years I have seen remarkable advances in treatments, scanning techniques and research, but there is still more to do so any donation you can offer will be a big help.

My hope is that, by the time my children and grandchildren reach my age, prostate cancer will no longer be the life-changing disease it is today, thanks to earlier diagnosis, better treatments and continued research.

If you are able to make a donation, share this page, or write to your MP in support of routine prostate cancer testing, I would be sincerely grateful.

Thank you for your support

UPDATE

Training going well throughout August after a month off during July due to medical problem (not cancer related). I hope this should be enough, distance is no the problem it is the climbing up the big hill which is the worry.