FORMER national power lifter, Sheila Williams, will be leaving her weights at home when she cycles 600 kilometres to raise funds for Cancer Research and the Macmillan Nurses.

The 40-year-old health and fitness instructor, set off on a solo ride from Tyldesley with her friend Chris Dawson, who will be driving the support vehicle. All the team members have lost someone close to cancer, even Dylan the dog, who will be accompanying Chris in the van.

Sheila said: "This epic ride is in memory of my sister and Chris's mum who both died in 1992. I had three goals last year; to finish college, to get a job in the sports industry, and to ride to Kent for my 40th birthday.

"I feel it's time now for me to do something for the Macmillan Nurses and Cancer Research. They have been absolutely brilliant, they can't do enough for you. Cancer affects so many people, and there are no barriers, it doesn't matter how young or old you are, it can still get you."

Sheila and Chris are united in their commitment to complete the run, ending at the Isle of Shepley in Kent, with various stops planned along the route. The emotional pilgrimage represents a personal milestone for both of them -- it is their own way of commemorating the anniversaries of two untimely family deaths.

A member of Preston Wheelers Cycle Club, Sheila admits she is not really a 'roadie': "I only just got into the road biking last year. I've been going out on rides with a friend of mine who is a cycle coach, I will be meeting him on the way down for some encouragement. Though I am a member of Preston Wheelers team, I am not super fit and this is a new challenge for me."

Support vehicle driver Chris Dawson said: "I am going to be visiting where my Mum's ashes are, it means a lot to me. I know Sheila has wanted to do this for a long time, and I wanted to go along and support her."

Sheila has sent out 70 letters to large companies asking for sponsorship and only received five positive responses. Now she is hoping that big-hearted smaller businesses will dig deep to support her efforts. Cheques should be made out to Cancer Research or Macmillan Nurses. If businesses have any items to donate for raffle prizes please get in touch with Sheila on 01942 886490 or e-mail: ourchandon@aol.com