Patients on The Christie's teenage cancer unit clocked up an impressive 52 miles on a cyber cycle challenge of Manchester city centre, raising valuable funds for the unit.

The patients got to saddle up and have a sneak peak of the upcoming Great Manchester Cycle route taking place on Saturday 4^th June. The urban view of the route was shown virtually on a screen hooked up to the bike so cyclists could take in the sights of Mancunian Way, the Lowry and Old Trafford.

The patients were also keen to get on the bikes to reap the benefits of exercise. Ryan Bartlett, from Salford, 24, said:

"It's good to get the heart pumping. I'm normally very sporty so doing the Cyber Cycle, even though I'm having chemotherapy at the moment, is a great way for me to feel fit and healthy. Our team cycled the furthest distance possible so we are really pleased with ourselves."

Jenny Haskey, head of corporate fundraising and sporting events at The Christie charity, said:

"The Cyber Cycle Challenge was a fantastic way for our young patients to do physical exercise during their treatment, as well as to see how the Great Manchester Cycle will look in a month's time. Mancunian Way has never looked so impressive - and quiet!"

All the funds raised from the event go back into the teenage unit and donations can be made via the teams' donation page: www.justgiving.com/Team-ChristieYOU

Register for the cycling event in aid of The Christie visit the Great Manchester Cycle website (http://www.greatcycle.org/). Anyone who has already signed up and would like to support The Christie, contact the events team on 0161 446 3400 or events@christies.org.

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