Charity cyclist has used same bike for 40 years

A cyclist who said his dad's life was "prolonged" by a cancer hospital has used the same bike every year since 1985 to take part in an annual Manchester-to-Blackpool charity ride.

Tony O'Dwyer, who co-founded the fundraiser for The Christie in Manchester, said he hoped to reconnect with many of his fellow cyclists who lined up on the start line 40 years ago.

This year's event will take place on 13 July, four days before Tony's 70th birthday.

"I can't believe it's been 40 years," he said. "It was just a group of mates, a few bikes, and the road to Blackpool – we didn't have the gear, just grit and a bit of madness!"

He added: "We passed through Leigh, Standish, Preston, and St Annes, stopping at pubs and windmills along the way, just enjoying the journey.

"I'd love to reconnect with the original group - Mike, Barry, Susan, John, Margaret and Christine.

"It would be brilliant to see where life has taken them."

The original ride four decades ago saw Tony take part while dressed up as a lion.

When the event had to be cancelled during the Covid pandemic, he completed the route on his own.

Tony, who volunteers for "Gearing Up", a community-focused bicycle workshop and social enterprise based in Wigan, said: "There were others on the way doing it themselves too, which was amazing to see!"

Tony said his wife of 23 years, Julie, had been a constant supporter of his fundraising efforts on board Glodean - the original bike he relied upon in 1985.

When asked about why he was so passionate about the annual race, he explained: "The Christie prolonged my dad's life, so I am proud to do the bike [ride] every year for The Christie Charity and so happy to see so many people get up and out on their bikes too."

He said he wanted to send a "good luck" message to everyone taking part in this summer's event.

"Remember it's a wonderful day out - a gentle ride, not a race - it's more important you finish for The Christie than break any records!

"I can't wait to do it for the 40th time!"

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