My Tour De 4 Fundraiser to Fight Cancer

Many of you will know that I was diagnosed with Stage 4 prostate cancer in early 2024.

Stage 4 is incurable. But it is treatable. And I've been cared for exceptionally well by the NHS and feel blessed by their support.

When my wife Harriet and I learnt about Sir Chris Hoy's charity bike ride - The Tour de 4 - taking place on 7 Sep in Glasgow, we knew we had to take part. His experience, as recounted in his book, resonates strongly with us.

Despite constant tiredness, and having to manage complicated 'plumbing' issues, I'm trying my best. Our training regime is rigorous. We've discovered it's fun, and we're on track to meet our 37 mile target.

I've chosen to back Macmillan Cancer Support. My mother and darling sister Julia both died of breast cancer, and Macmillan was a tremendous support throughout.

Their experience motivated me to become a Macmillan Befriending Volunteer over 10 years ago. This involves talking, helping with and comforting those with cancer, including end of life. I still do this.

This service, involving unpaid volunteers, is in addition to all the other great work Macmillan provides through its nurses, and other practical support.

I'd like this event not just to raise awareness of prostate cancer but, importantly, also to improve detection and treatment before those like Sir Chris and others find ourselves at Stage 4.

I'd be enormously grateful for any donation you can make. With your help, we can do this.