TACKLING four cycling challenges will see Ian Cumming notch up more than 500 miles on a bike for a hospice.

Ian and his cycling partner Nathan Wilson have already taken on the first challenge, which saw them cycle around Manchester, starting the speedometer off with 50 miles.

And in July the duo will face 60 miles in the saddle, as they cycle from Manchester to Blackpool, followed by a huge 300 mile trek from London to Paris later in the month.

Finally, they plan another 100 mile cycle around Manchester in August.

Ian, aged 48 and from Pennington in Leigh, said “Personally, 2013 was a very difficult year for my family. The only way we know to effectively put the past behind us is to have positive aims that lead to positive futures.

“I’m cycling for St Rocco’s Hospice in Warrington because they provide great care and support.”

He and 39-year-old Nathan, from Lowton, who is cycling for Guide Dogs for the blind, have been training for this mammoth journey since November 2013, preparing them for the challenge of a lifetime.

With help from Ian’s main sponsor Alfred Jones, which has Spar Shops in Warrington, every penny raised will go directly to charities.

Collection boxes have been placed in all of Spar’s shops and post offices.

Alternatively, you can donate at www.justgiving.com/Ian-Cumming2.