Two brothers from Bramhall, whose mother died in February after a battle with cancer, will be taking part in the North West's biggest bike ride next month to raise money in her memory.

Tricia Preston, married to husband Graham for over 38 years, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer just before Christmas 2008. Despite a 26 month battle the former French teacher and language tutor sadly died this year aged 62.

Her two sons Gareth, 28 and Duncan aged 25 are now hoping to raise £5,000 for The Christie where she was treated by undertaking the 60 mile Manchester to Blackpool bike ride.

Starting from the iconic home of Manchester United at Old Trafford, the ride takes participants along country lanes to the finish at Blackpool's Mirror Ball on the South Promenade, where they get to enjoy a barbecue and live music.

Gareth, a personal trainer said; "Neither Duncan or I are big cyclists but we're going to give it our best shot in mum's memory.

"We all miss mum greatly, life just isn't the same without her. But we're incredibly proud of the way she battled the disease, she had the heart of a lion!

"We're also extremely proud of the life she led - a first class honours in French at Bangor university was just one of her achievements. As a teacher she inspired so many students - she even taught premier league footballers to help them to improve their language skills - and of course she was a fantastic mum

"Doing this bike ride obviously won't bring her back but it's our way of thanking the staff at The Christie who cared for her.

"Special thanks go to Dr Juan Valle who was the oncologist in charge of mum throughout her illness. He was incredibly sensitive yet positive to mum and to our whole family and we would all like to thank him personally.

"Thanks also to all the other members of staff in the day unit and the ward for their care and kindness and to all who gave her expert care and treatment helping her to live a lot longer that we originally expected.

"We'd all appreciate it if anyone could help us reach our fundraising target by visiting www.justgiving.com/tricia-preston-fund."

Sporting events officer at the Christie charity, Marco Giannini, said; "We were so sorry to hear the extremely sad news about Tricia - she sounds like an extremely inspirational woman.

"Huge thanks to Gareth and Duncan for taking part in this bike ride for us. The money they raise will make a huge difference and I'll be cheering them on on the day."

There is still time to take part in the Manchester to Blackpool bike ride in aid of The Christie. Please visit www.bike-events.com to register. Please ensure that when registering you tick the Christie box if you wish to take part for our cause.

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