A Darlington man is cycling the length of the UK raising thousands for a cancer support group which helped him through a bowel cancer battle.

Keen rider Damian Lee Stevens was diagnosed with the disease shortly before lockdown was imposed in 2020.

On Saturday (September 7) he will leave Land’s End in Cornwall and attempt to reach the UK’s northern tip at John o’Groats within nine days to raise funds for the Great Aycliffe Cancer Support Group, which helped him during his treatment.

The 46-year-old told the Echo: “I went into hospital before lockdown and had emergency surgery on March 31, 2020, to have my large intestine removed.

“I was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2020 and my nurse put me in touch with Allison from the Great Aycliffe Cancer Support Group (GACS)

Damian is part of Darlington Cycling Club.Damian is part of Darlington Cycling Club. (Image: DAMIAN LEE STEVENS)

“I thought that was normal, but speaking with her I realised that wasn’t the case.”

GACS offers support to anyone affected by cancer, including patients and their families.

Damian’s nine-day challenge will see him average about 110 miles a day, travelling down through Scotland and down the West Coast.

The ex-forces man continued: “I wouldn’t want to do it for any other charity than GACS. Allison was there to help my family when we needed it.

“I started fundraising and trying to raise whatever I could and raise awareness.

Damian Lee Stevens.Damian Lee Stevens. (Image: DAMIAN LEE STEVENS)

“I am a little bit nervous but it's probably better to go into it with some nerves.

“I cycle at a relatively decent level. A few weekends ago I did Seaton Carew to the West Coast and the journey back of 118 miles on both days. The first day I thought I was fine when I got home I thought I am feeling this now which raises the concern of I have got to do this nine days in a row.

“After that, I am starting to think this is going to be quite a task to get through it.

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“I’ve been riding since 2020. I was in the forces so I’ve always had a good level of fitness.

“When I was diagnosed with cancer I ended up with a stoma bag. I thought about running but it was quite uncomfortable with the bag. It was what one of my friends said about cycling.

“I was wanting to raise £2,500, I’ve already raised more than £3,000.”

Damian’s JustGiving page is sitting at £3,193 raised as he prepares to head off on his journey.

Anyone wishing to donate can do so here.