A CYCLIST is to embark on a coast-to-coast trip in memory of his girlfriend, who died earlier this year.

Graham Marshall, 39, and his friend Ian Storey, 32, from Spennymoor, plan to cycle 142 miles from Whitehaven to Sunderland in 12 hours on Friday, July 20.

Mr Marshall, of Tweed Road, lost his long-time girlfriend to cancer earlier this year.

He decided to raise money for the Cancer Research Campaign and Bishop Auckland General Hospital's special care baby unit, where Ian's wife, Andrea, works.

Mr Marshall said: "We are getting a lot of support from our work colleagues at Sanyo and Nissan, and have so far raised about £450 in sponsorship."

The cyclists will set off from Whitehaven at 6am and hope to arrive in Sunderland by 6pm.

Rebecca Laverick, of the Cancer Research Campaign, said: "Our sincere thanks to Graham and Ian and to everyone who is supporting their ride."

To sponsor the cyclists telephone (01388) 812470.