A security supervisor at The Christie Hospital is to take on a cycling challenge for the fifth time in support of the cancer centre where he works.

Rupert Ajelo, from Westhoughton, is to take on the 60 miles from Salford Quays to the South Promenade of Blackpool, Lancashire, on July 14.

Mr Ajelo works at The Christie Hospital in Withington, Manchester, which is one of the largest of its type on the continent and which treats tens of thousands of patients per year.

The 54-year-old wants to support the cancer centre through The Christie Charity alongside around 4,000 other cyclists of all ages and abilities.

Mr Ajelo said: "When I heard of the charity cycle I was thrilled because it allowed me to combine my love of cycling with doing something positive and giving back to The Christie.

"It is a special place to work and I am proud to raise money on behalf of the charity. I have a lot of support from my family and from my friends.

"I enjoy keeping fit as it has benefits for my role as security supervisor at The Christie. 

"On my days off I love to take in the scenery around where I live in Westhoughton."

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The Christie Charity supports projects and services above and beyond the projects and services supported by the budget of the NHS.

It raised more than £20 million from tens of thousands of supporters last year with 82 pence in every pound spent straight on the patients.

Josh Hughff, the charity's Events Officer, said: "The Christie Manchester to Blackpool bike ride is one of the biggest fundraising cycle events in the UK. 

"I hope Rupert inspires his colleagues at The Christie to join in with the fundraising."

To contribute to Mr Ajelo on JustGiving go to justgiving.com/page/rupert-ajelo-17178324366.

For information on the Manchester to Blackpool bike ride go to christie.nhs.uk/the-christie-charity/get-involved/fundraise/events/events-calendar/the-christie-manchester-to-blackpool-bike-ride.

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.