A WISTASTON woman is encouraging people to sign up for a cycling epic to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Diane Houston, a member of the charity's Crewe and Nantwich local committee, raised over £1,100 by walking 10,000 steps every day during March.

Now she and her committee members want to sign people up for a month-long virtual cycling challenge, Pedal For Pounds.

Throughout June people are being asked to hit their pedals and cycle any distance up to 300 miles so they can raise money for life-saving research, while also promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Participants can complete the challenge by setting their own miles target and cycle at their own pace, either physically in the local area or at the gym/home on an exercise bike.

Upon sign up, participants will be provided with a free online Pedal For Pounds fundraising pack and be set up with a personal fundraising page.

Crewe & Nantwich Local Committee have been supporting Cancer Research UK for 67 years and have continued to raise vital funds for the charity during the lockdown restrictions.

Neil Fearn, Chairman of Crewe and Nantwich Local Committee, said: "We're very excited to bring this challenge to the local area.

"Participants may be keen cyclers or complete novices, but the challenge gives people the flexibility to complete it in their own way – whether that's setting a target of 60 miles and cycling two miles a day indoors, or cycling 15 miles each weekend around town.

"However, most importantly, it encourages people to contribute towards life-saving cancer research."

Neil added: "The need to support Cancer Research UK, and all charities, has never been more urgent than right now. It's so motivating to know that the money we raise will be helping Cancer Research UK to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured."

Chris Doyle, Relationship Manager for Cancer Research UK in the North West, said: "We are absolutely delighted that Crewe and Nantwich Local Committee has decided to organise such a great cycling challenge for all abilities to raise vital funds for Cancer Research UK.

"The truth is, COVID-19 has slowed us down and Cancer Research UK is predicting a staggering £300 million drop in income over the next three years which could put future medical breakthroughs at risk.

"But with over 40,000 people diagnosed with cancer each year in the North West we are determined to continue to create better cancer treatments for tomorrow and with the help of people like Crewe and Nantwich Local Committee, we believe that together we will still beat cancer."

Sign up for Pedal For Pounds here.

For further information visit cruk.org.