WELLINGTON’S Charles Biscoe sets off to cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats on Saturday to raise money for prostate cancer.

Charles, who works as a manager for NHS Direct, will load his few provisions on to his bicycle, wave goodbye to his children at Land’s End and pedal alone and unsupported to the highlands.

Charles, 51, said: “My intention is to raise awareness of prostate cancer and to hopefully collect £1,000 sponsorship for the Prostate Cancer Charity.

“As a nurse, I am too well aware of the disease and its effect on sufferers and their families.

“I am keen to get men talking about the disease in the same way that women now talk more openly about breast and cervical cancer.

“This can only lead to earlier diagnosis and improved prognosis, as well as more fund-raising for better treatment.

“I am travelling light, with the bare minimum of equipment. My whole kit weighs under five kilos – I’m not even taking a change of clothing.

“The plan is to cover just under 80 miles a day and be in John O’Groats by Friday, October 10.”

To keep up to date with his blog, follow his journey, and access his fundraising pages, go to www.biscoe.eu Charles, who only returned to cycling seriously three years ago, is a well known member of the cycling community in Somerset and is often to be seen riding with the Wellington Wheelers and the Somerset Tri Club.