Dad preparing to cycle from London to Paris in aid of a Leukaemia charity

Andy Salmon, who is a senior lecturer at Birmingham City University, is currently training for his marathon cycle starting on September 9.

He is taking on the challenge in support of the Cure Leukaemia Charity.

Cure Leukaemia's aim is to help find a cure for all blood cancers by funding research nurses and clinical roles at 12 blood cancer centres across the UK.

Speaking about his upcoming challenge, Andy said: “When I was asked if I would be prepared to take part, I didn’t even have to give it a second thought because not only would I be helping to fund this ground breaking work but it would also give me an opportunity to help raise much needed funds so that the work can continue.

"Leukaemia is a terrible disease that claims the lives of over 4,000 people each year in the UK.

"That is over 10 people every day of every week and when those people go, the impact is felt right across the community.

"My training has officially started now that the weather is becoming milder.

"My plan is to do a road ride each Sunday and Wednesday as well as using my exercise bike a couple of times each week too."

Andy said that he feels privileged to undertake this cycling challenge.

He added: “Unfortunately, I lost a friend to Leukaemia not so long ago and in some way I feel as though he’ll be willing me on, along the journey to Paris."

Andy is hoping to raise £1,500 through his fundraiser.

Anyone wanting to donate can do so through Andy’s JustGiving page where he will be providing regular updates about his training, nutrition as well as updates throughout the journey.