A YOUNG man suffering from a chronic bladder condition has peddled his way to raising more than £1,800 for charities supporting people with similar problems.

Matthew Gough, of Tarn Way, Lowton, took on his latest charity challenge in mid-August, attempting to ride 140 miles from Whitehaven to Sunderland in four days with the support of his step-dad, uncle, brother and two cousins.

The 21-year-old had to abort his coast-to-coast challenge after sustaining a shoulder injury, but his family took over the reins and between them they raised £360 for the Cystitis and Overactive Bladder Foundation.

Matthew was diagnosed with interstitial cystitis three years ago.

There is no cure for the condition, which is uncommon in men and forces Matthew to carefully manage his lifestyle and diet to avoid flare ups of pelvis pain and long-term damage.

He said: “When I was diagnosed I knew nothing about the condition.

“I decided that I wanted to raise money for people struggling with similar symptoms to myself because it can really affect your life.

"The summer after I was diagnosed at 18 I did my first cycling challenge and since then I have done more to raise money for other people suffering from interstitial cystitis and similar conditions."

Matthew, who is about to start a master’s degree at Manchester Business School, added: “Anyone with the condition will say you have good and bad days but you just have to keep going and try not to let it affect your life.

"If anyone would be willing to make a donation to help others with the condition it would mean so much. Any amount will help.

To make a donation visit mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/icc2cchallenge.