Land’s End in sight for brave biker Alan

A VINTAGE motorbike fan who suffers from bowel cancer is well on his way to completing a mammoth 874-mile ride from John O’Groats to Land’s End — all in the name of charity.

Brave Alan Taylor, who hit the road on Friday, is hoping to raise as much money for the Link4Pink appeal, launched last summer to fund the Victoria Breast-Care Unit at the Royal Oldham Hospital.

The 55-year-old, from Chadderton, hopes to complete the gruelling feat by tomorrow.

But another epic journey began for Alan in 2007 — his battle against bowel cancer.

The fitter and welder underwent major surgery at The Royal Oldham Hospital followed by 30 sessions of chemotherapy to beat the disease.

He said: “I had the best care I could get and I always said that if I came out of it I would give something back.

“If I can support the hospital in any way, shape or form, I will.

“I also want to raise awareness about bowel cancer as it can be an embarrassing subject and there is a lack of awareness about the condition.

“Unfortunately, I’m still recovering from the treatment so I haven’t been able to go back to work yet. But I thought to myself, I can either sit and vegetate or I can try and do something to say thank-you.

“It’s important for me to help support the hard-working and dedicated staff at The Royal Oldham Hospital and raise as much money as possible to help them continue their excellent work.”

Jan Bolton, fund-raising co-ordinator for Pennine Acute charity, added: “He has been a tower of strength.

“The Link4pink appeal has really raised the profile of the Victoria Breast Unit and the money Alan has raised is very much appreciated.”