Epic journey is my thank-you

MEAN machine . . . Alan Taylor with the vintage motorbike which will take him from Land’s End to John O’ Groats

VINTAGE-motorbike fan Alan Taylor is revving up for an epic ride to thank those who cared for him when he was treated for cancer.

The 55-year-old, from Chadderton, will travel from Land’s End to John O’Groats — an 874-mile trip — raising money for Link4Pink, a charity which supports the Victoria Breast Care Unit at the Royal Oldham Hospital.

That’s where he received 30 sessions of chemotherapy after undergoing major surgery at the hospital for bowel cancer less than two years ago.

“I had the best care I could get,” he said. “I always said if I came out of it I would give something back, and if I can support it in any way, shape or form I will.”

Alan is still recovering from his ordeal, and is unable to go back to work as a fitter and welder.

“I thought I could either sit and vegetate or try and do something to say thank-you,” he said.

Alan became the proud owner of the vintage Yamaha XS1100 Midnight Special after he spotted it for sale on ebay.

But it was only after he took delivery of the 29-year-old machine that he learned of its history.

“It was one of three bought by the magazine Motorcycle News in 2005 to go to a Motorhead concert in Germany,” he explained. “And it’s the only one that didn’t break down!”

Alan has chosen the last week in May for his fund-raising challenge.

He will make the journey with his cousin, Kevin Clarke, who lives in Lancaster and is raising money for Macmillan Nurses.

Alan raised £1,250 for the Wish Upon a Star charity with the same journey in 2001. But he hopes to bring in more money this time, despite the recession. He has already collected £103 in donations at the Manchester Bike Show and is planning other fund-raising events including an auction, raffle and a folk concert, culminating in an evening of music at Chadderton Social and Bowling Club in June.

Alan is appealing for sponsors, particularly businesses, to contact him on 0161-284 3134.

“I will cover my bike in stickers or do anything people want if they will sponsor me,” he added.


Play’s message: don’t keep quiet
A UNIQUE play which aims to take the embarrassment out of bowel cancer is coming to Oldham.

“You, Me and Us” — pioneered by NHS Bolton using actors from The Pyramid Theatre Company — will highlight the risks and symptoms of the disease.

The production tells the tale of of Rodney, who’s embarrassment had left him reluctant to discuss his symptoms with his doctor. The tale shows what happens to Rodney through his diagnosis of bowel cancer, treatment and the road to recovery.

The 40-minute play, at the Salt Cellar, Church Street, next Thursday (2.30pm) will be followed by discussions with local health professionals.

Evelyn Desai, consultant in public health at NHS Oldham, said: “It is essential that bowel cancer is detected at an early stage as early treatment can save lives. Often people keep quiet about any symptoms because of embarrassment.”

Key symptoms which might need further investigation are any persistent change in bowel habits or passing blood. To book free tickets for the play, call Julie Batty on 01204-462 178.