A FORMER stable lad is getting back in the saddle to raise funds for a cause close to his heart.

John Neilson, from the Tow Law area of County Durham, is one of just 12 people selected to ride in the 47th Macmillan Charity Raceday at York Racecourse on June 17.

The 51-year-old now faces months of intense training before riding a fully-fledged thoroughbred racehorse in front of a bumper crowd expected to be in excess of 25,000 people.

In doing so, he will enter the history books as the Macmillan Charity Raceday is the oldest and biggest charity event of its kind in the world.

Mr Neilson, who worked in racing stables when he was younger, said: “My wife’s cousin was taken by cancer a few years ago at a really young age so this is my way of doing something for an excellent cause.

“I’ve pledged to raise £5,000 so every penny counts no matter how big or small a donation.

“I am really looking forward to the day. Racing has been a big part of my life and it will be terrific to ride at York.”

On the day, Mr Neilson, commercial director at the Distinctive Group in Newcastle, will compete in the Best Western Hotel sponsored Ride of their Lives.

He has already begun his training, regularly riding out for Rose and Tony Dobbin in the North-East to ensure he is fit enough.

His fundraising is also off to a flying start, with Brighter Law Solutions sponsoring him to the tune of £3,000.

Macmillan funds a variety of cancer support services, including nurses, welfare benefits advisors and cancer information centres.

Nikki Denton, the charity’s events manager, said: “This is a huge challenge for these 12 members of the public. They will be swapping their everyday lives for months of training and fundraising.

“We’re so grateful for their support as Macmillan relies on donations to fund our vital services, which are there to help ensure no one faces cancer alone.”

The Macmillan Charity Raceday features seven races alongside charity lunches, auctions, raffles and collections.

Last year, the event raised more than £480,000. Riders will be hoping to better the record figure raised by the class of 2016, who brought in more than £150,000 towards the grand total.

  • To sponsor Mr Neilson, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/John-Neilson3 or click here.