Cycle event at reservoir in Daventry district will raise money for blood cancer charity

In September 2012, Russell Watson, then aged 36, went to the doctors displaying what was initially thought as tonsillitis-type symptoms that wouldn’t clear.

He said: “I knew something was wrong, but it was such a shock to eventually be told I had blood cancer – you just don’t expect to hear those words at my age.”

Russell quickly began intensive chemotherapy treatment but was told his best chance of a long term cure was a stem cell transplant from a total stranger.

After a period of not knowing whether a donor was available, a match was found by the charity Anthony Nolan and he had a transplant in July 2013. The transplant was a success and Russell is now on the road to recovery.

He has now decided to help raise funds and awareness for Anthony Nolan by organising his own charity cycle ride, Ride out with Russ, starting from Brixworth Country Park on June 12.

The ride has 3 routes to choose from, a seven mile lap of Pitsford reservoir and a 30 or 55 mile road ride.

Russell will also be taking on the Prudential Ride London-Surrey 100 mile event at the end of July.

You can find out more, including how to book a place, by going to http://goo.gl/qomzXg or look for the event on Facebook.