A PROSTATE cancer survivor from Ilkley is gearing up to take part in Yorkshire Cancer Research’s flagship bike ride, The Dales Rider, for a second year running.

Adrian Cox, a product manager at a medical equipment company, raised nearly £900 for the charity when he completed the 31 mile challenge just six months after being given the ‘all clear’.

Adrian’s father, who passed away earlier this year from stroke-related complications, also suffered from prostate cancer, and his mother died from lung cancer last August – two weeks before the last Dales Rider event took place.

Now Adrian is hoping to raise even more for the charity’s world-class research projects by taking part in the event once again in their memory.

Adrian said: “I really enjoyed the ride last year. It was the camaraderie of the other riders that made it, along with the support of my immediate family. It was tougher than I thought it would be, but still memorable and that’s why I have chosen to do it again this year, and of course to raise yet more needed funds to help eradicate this awful disease once and for all.”

The Dales Rider, which takes place on Sunday, August 31, offers a choice of a 31 mile ‘Challenger’ route and 65 mile ‘Gear Grinder’ route, which both begin and end at Ilkley Rugby Club. The routes showcase much of the same stunning scenery highlighted during the coverage of the Tour de France’s Grand Départ through Yorkshire. The event is backed by professional cyclist Scott Thwaites, from Burley-in-Wharfedale.

Entry to The Dales Rider costs £20, or £27.50 with timing chip. For more information and to sign up, visit: yorkshirecancerresearch.org.uk/thedalesrider.