A FORMER Runshaw College student is setting off on a marathon cycle ride in memory of his grandfather who died five years ago.

Keen cyclist Jonathan Hill, 19, sets out on his mercy mission 270-mile ride across England on Sunday, September 9, five days after his 20th birthday.

His cross country ride, from the port of Dover to his Preston homeland, will raise lots of money for the Cancer Research Campaign, in memory of his grandfather who died of lung cancer.

The needy charity funds research into new cures and treatments for cancer which affects thousands of people each year.

Jonathan, who lives in Tarleton, near Preston, and is currently studying at Huddersfield University, is aiming to complete the four-day challenge with ease.

He said: "When I came back from university for the summer I just decided I wanted to do it.

"I'm in a pretty good state of fitness and it should take four days. I hope to raise £500 for the Cancer Research Fund."

Charity champ Jonathan, who attended the Langdale Road college before embarking on his university course, hopes to save himself a bob-or-two by staying in youth hostels located en-route.

He said: "It is my first time doing something like this and I see it as a personal challenge.

"As I don't have any money I am staying in youth hostels to budget. My university is also sponsoring me."

A Cancer Research Campaign spokesman said: "The campaign relies entirely on the generosity of the general public and the tireless enthusiasm and commitment of its fund-raisers and supporters like Jonathan."

To sponsor Jonathan on his cycle challenge for the good cause call 07813 756599.