RIDERS for the Great Willy Run got in the saddle once again to raise money for cancer research.

For the twelfth year running bikers from the local area put on their helmets and rode over 200 miles in one day for charity.

The appropriately named Willy Run was set up by Alan Rothery, 62 of Buttermere Drive, Dalton.

Working as a prostate cancer nurse at Furness General Hospital for 21 years, Mr Rothery has seen the pain that a disease like prostate cancer can cause to men and their families.

He said: "It was seeing people suffer and die that made me want to do something.

"People need to be aware of the risks when you are over 30."

This year the ride was more poignant than usual as Mr Rothery’s brother-in-law, Roy Little recently died after battling cancer.

The desire to raise money to fight prostate cancer and raise awareness led to 40 bikers assembling on Sunday July 3.

At 9.30am the riders set off on their 200 mile journey that took them through of the best scenery the Lakes have to offer.

They passed through St. Bees, Penrith, before climbing to Hartside and then back home through Kendal, Brough and Dalton.

The riders enjoyed a sunny rain-free day, which Mr Rothery put down to something more than it being summer.

He said: “I think Roy was looking down on us from up there.

“He kept it dry for us.”

Mr Rothery spoke about how much the ride was enjoyed by all the bikers that came along.

He said: “They all really enjoyed themselves, luckily we only had just one breakdown.”

“There was a sense of camaraderie, it was a good get together to raise money for the cause.”

Although there hasn’t been a final count of the money raised, Alan is confident that close to £2000 has been raised.

This figure will be matched by Barclays Bank who Alan has teamed up with to support his cause.

Mr Rothery still has two collection tins at the White Scar Caves in Ingleton, and Beddall‘s Newsagent in Dalton where people can still donate.

Mr Rothery is going to put his feet up for a week to rest after his endurance ride, but he has already started planning for next year.

He said: “By January I’ll have the next ride sorted out. There was no problem with the route this year, so we’re going to do it again.

“Next year we want even more bikes raising even more money.

”I’m really happy with how the day went, it was just a cracking day out.”

Read more about Mr Rothery’s motivation to ride this huge distance

http://www.nwemail.co.uk/news/barrow/Dalton-man-organises-charity-bike-ride-for-prostate-cancer-awareness-da6c07f1-7e77-4746-ad45-2bfd3d5431f5-ds

See the route that was ridden