Bikers take on tough 120-mile ride for Bill

READY to roll . . . James Watson and Mike Ralph (centre) with members of the team, including Nick Wilson, Alan Marsden, Sam Wiggett, Simon Tait, Matthew Jackson and Bobby Greenwood. Also in the team are Patrick Gardiner, Peter Soward and Steve Walton.

A team of friends is heading out on a nostalgic bike ride to celebrate the memory of cancer sufferer Bill Watson.

Bill’s son James and friend Mike Ralph (49) will head a group of cyclists on the 120-mile ride from Newcastle to Edinburgh, coinciding with the Scotland v Ireland Six Nations rugby union match at Murrayfield.

Along the way, the group will share memories of Bill, who died last year after losing his second battle against cancer.

James (29), a joiner from Delph, said: “Dad was born in Edinburgh and was a true Scot. But Newcastle was the city closest to his heart because he lived there for many years when he was younger.

“We will raise money for Macmillan, who helped care for our loved ones during their period of ill health, and a local charity.

“Although it’s not the most mammoth of riding distances, for most of our group the ride is a significant challenge, and one we intend to complete to do our bit to help those in need.”

To contribute online visit: www.justgiving.com/Newcastletoedinburgh. Or text NCED53 followed by £1 2 3 4 5 or 10 to 70070, For information on The Quiet Ones, contact secretary Christine Newton: 0161-683 5617.