A Lelant cancer patient plans to cycle from John O'Groats to Lands End for charity.

Andy Wooders was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2016.

He is now aiming to tackle the 875 mile trail across the island to raise funds for The Sunrise Centre, a cancer ward at Treliske hospital.

The ride will take place during a break in his treatment which is being administered in a 24-week on 12-week off cycle.

Andy said: "It all started when I felt a persistent niggle in my shoulder. I started to have physiotherapy but was eventually sent for an MRI scan that revealed I had a cancerous kidney tumour and that it had started to spread to my spine."

Following the discovery, Andy had surgery in Exeter where the tumour was removed along with four vertebrae and several intervertebral discs, as well as having two metal rods screwed to the top and base of his spine so he could continue to walk.

He said: "The treatment I've had and continue to receive at the Sunrise Centre is absolutely second-to-none and I can't thank them enough for the kindness, care and support that they've shown myself and my family during what's been a particularly hard time in our lives.

"The staff are absolutely marvellous and do a wonderful job at creating a calm atmosphere.

"Every cycle of the way we'll be thinking about them and every patient that passes through the sunrise centre!"

Andy and wife Niki from Lelant will start the challenge on Friday August 16 and plan to arrive at Land's End on August 29.

The challenge is a family affair: Niki's sister-in-law Kerry (whose father was also diagnosed with cancer) will drive the support vehicle, Andy's brother Martin and friend Steve will cycle alongside and nephews Will and Joe will provide refreshments throughout.

Niki said: "This is such an important issue to us and our families after everything that’s happened with Andy’s diagnosis and treatment, so we wanted to do something big and challenging – like riding 1,000 miles along the length of Britain – to raise as much money as we can.

"We are training hard in preparation. It’s daunting to say the least, but we’re also really excited to take it on.”

Andy added, “I had planned to cycle a similar distance as a milestone before I turned 55 two years ago in France - but cancer had other ideas. I’ve always been an adventurer and it took me a while to get back on my feet after the initial diagnosis, but I managed to start cycling again in February 2017.

“I’m not nervous about the challenge itself - in fact, I’m looking forward to it and spending time with my wife and brother. The most comfortable place for me at the moment is on a bike because all my weight is being taken through the saddle, but there’s no doubt that it will be physically and mentally challenging.

"We can’t wait to get started, have some fun and hopefully raise some more money along the way.”

The couple set an initial fundraising target of £1,250 but have almost exceeded that amount.

They’ll be taking collection buckets with them on their journey and accepting donations through a Justgiving page.

Niki added, “We’re extremely appreciative of any form of support no matter how big or small, and we would love to thank everyone in advance for their kindness."