NEXT month brings the challenge of a lifetime for a Bromsgrove man who will cycle 100 miles to raise money for the charity, Beating Bowel Cancer.
Reuben Smith, 44, will take on the feat in memory of family and friends he has lost to the disease.
The enthusiastic cyclist will tackle the Prudential Ride – London-Surrey 100 – on Sunday, July 31.
The event follows the route made famous by the world’s top cyclists in the 2012 London Olympics.
It kicks off from Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, then follows a 100-mile route through the capital and into Surrey’s stunning countryside, before finishing on the Mall in Central London.
Reuben said: “My grandparents both died a number of years ago from bowel cancer.
“My grandfather Jack Smith was a Second World War veteran who served in France as a motorbike rider and I still have fond memories of him telling me stories about the war.
“My grandmother Molly Smith was always very dear to me. She used to work in the local laundrette and I would sneak out of things I should have been doing to go and see her there.
“I am sure both my grandparents would have pleased I have decided to raise money in their memories.
“On the other hand, it’s likely my friend Alan would have been very dismissive about me doing this in his name.
“However, he was a man who could cajole money for charity from everyone, so I’m sure he would approve of the fund-raising and I am pretty sure he would be even more amazed at me riding 100 miles.
“His ability to endure and continue his life during what must have been a terrifying time is still an impressive feat to me.”
Reuben said a former colleague who had surgery and chemotherapy had also been diagnosed with the disease.
“He is battling this illness in a cheerful and positive manner that puts a lot of problems into perspective.”
Owner of SWAT Gas Services Ltd in Redditch, Reuben said he trains three times a week and has so far covered about 800 miles.
Beating Bowel Cancer’s Fund-raising Events Manager Danielle Chamberlain said: “We’re so grateful for Reuben’s support and fund-raising efforts, which will help the charity continue to support those affected by bowel cancer.”
Please click here to donate to Reuben’s fundraising efforts.
Visit www.beatingbowelcancer.org for more information and advice.
