A man from Blackpool is gearing up to complete his fourteenth Great North Run on Sunday 19th September, his third since he was diagnosed with cancer of the bladder and bowel.

Donald Eardley, 57, of Conway Avenue, will be joining thousands of runners in the half marathon to raise money for The Christie where he was treated.

Married to wife Pat for 34 years, the senior technician was diagnosed with cancer in March 2006 and underwent surgery to have his bowel and bladder removed.

He said; "I've always been fit and healthy so it was a bit of a shock when I was diagnosed.  You always think it's never going to happen to you.

"Luckily the cancer hadn't spread elsewhere, so the operation was able to get rid of the tumours completely.  I still have check-ups and of course there are side effects of medication and the surgery to contend with, but other than that I'm pretty much back to normal.

"I'm looking forward to the Great North Run now - it's a great day and there's always such a fantastic atmosphere.  When I finished the run in 2007 it was extremely emotional for me.  From being a very sick man, worrying whether I had a future to look forward to, I felt I was an athlete again!  I'd urge anyone to run for The Christie because it's such a great cause and they really do save lives."

The Great North Run is the world's most popular half marathon, with participants running between Newcastle upon Tyne and South Shields.  Money raised from people taking part for The Christie helps support vital developments at the leading cancer centre and pay for cancer research, high- tech equipment and extra patient services.

Sporting events officer at the Christie charity, Emma Tilley, said; "We're thrilled Donald is taking part for us again.  He's a great sport with a brilliant personality and his support is invaluable.  He shows that you can do just about anything if you put your mind to it - he's an inspiration."

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