A FUNDRAISING bike ride through a North-East beauty spot next month is another way for Vicky Chilcott to say thank you.

The County Durham businesswoman was so impressed by the way the Macmillan Cancer Relief charity helped her dying father that she has pledged to help them.

She hopes that up to 300 people will join her next month in raising cash for Macmillan by going on the Great Milk (Stout) Ride through Hamsterley Forest, County Durham, on Sunday, July 6.

Ms Chilcott, whose father, Ray Lakin, died four years ago from asbestos-related cancer, said: "Macmillan helped our family make a very distressing time more bearable."

Determined to help the cancer charity, she was one of the founder members of the Macmillan County Durham appeal when it was launched at Auckland Castle, Bishop Auckland, County Durham, in October 2001.

The charity aimed to raise £600,000 over three years to improve services in County Durham for people with incurable and progressive illnesses.

In less than two years, the appeal has raised almost £400,000; a specialist consultant has been appointed; and a second consultant is being lined up.

Ms Chilcott has organised a charity bike ride through Hamsterley Forest to boost the Macmillan cause.

Those taking part can opt for a five-mile ride, which is also open to walkers, or a 12 or 18-mile ride.

Entry is £2 per person or £4 per family. To enter, call 0191-378 1188 or register on the day.