Top cyclist backs cancer charity ride

Emma Silversides, from Cawood, near Selby, who is principal rider of the Belgium-based Sengers Ladies Cycling Team, is encouraging cyclists from across the county to take part in Yorkshire Cancer Research’s Pedal for Pounds North bike ride, which takes place on Sunday, September 4, in and around Leeds.

Participants choose from a 25-mile ride from Harewood House, near Leeds, to Collingham and back, or a 50-mile route which extends to Otley and includes views of Lindley Wood Reservoir.

Mr Silversides is also a keen artist and has donated six signed prints of famous cyclists such as Graeme Obree and Marco Pantani to give away as a competition prize.

She has also donated 100 prints featuring former cancer sufferer Lance Armstrong during a stage of the Tour de France when he was in the leader’s jersey, worth nearly £3,000, which will be sold on the charity’s website.

Emma, who lost her grandfather to cancer, said: “I know for sure that I am not alone when I say that I lost a precious family member to cancer – I think that it is fair to say that everyone has been touched by this disease in one way or another.

“Therefore I wholeheartedly support Pedal for Pounds; what better way to raise money for this worthy cause than getting out on your bike and enjoying the stunning scenery that our county offers?”

She added: “Here in Belgium, cycling truly is a way of life. Huge groups in the lanes, along the canal towpaths and on the specific cycle routes. It is a social event with the added addition of health benefits.”

The head of events at Yorkshire Cancer Research, Emma Young, said: “Sadly, Yorkshire currently has one of the worst cancer survival rates within the UK, which is down to a lack of funding provided by the Government and national charities to internationally renowned researchers and clinicians within the region.”

All sponsorship raised will go towards developing earlier diagnosis, prevention, and better treatment of cancer.

To enter, visit www.ycr.org.uk/pedal