TWO cycling enthusiasts have set off from region to ‘kick cancer in the saddle’ and raise money for two charities, in memory of a friend who died of the disease.

The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Maggie’s at the Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital will benefit from the efforts of in interior designer Darren Purvis of Birtley, near Chester-le-Street, and architect Luke Westoe, of Morpeth,

They are on The Andrew Grounsell Challenge, not only climbing the famous Three Peaks - Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis - but cycling to and from them all, as well.

The nine-day challenge will see them cycle over 1,000 miles, ascend over 40,000ft by bike, and climb a further 10,000ft by foot over the Three Peaks.

Their fundraising challenge is in memory of their friend and colleague, Andrew Grounsell - a talented architect and father-of-two, who worked alongside them at digital construction and design specialists, Space Group.

Mr Grounswell died last year from bowel cancer aged just 54.

Mr Purvis said: “Andrew bravely fought bowel cancer for two years and during this time his family were greatly supported by Maggie’s.

“And he was due to undertake a clinical trial funded by the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, but sadly passed away before he had the chance. That’s why we chose to support our two charities.”

Their challenge started at midday on Friday, when they left the Space Group office in Benton, taking in Maggie’s at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle and Sir Bobby Robson’s statue at St James’ Park, before their first gruelling 90-mile south stretch into North Yorkshire.

Mr Westoe said: “I’ve always cycled to work, and over the past few months at weekends I’ve spent more time riding my bike than on my feet.

“So, the walking is what I’m looking forward to the least.”

The pair are due tomorrow to tackle Scafell Pike, England’s tallest mountain at 978 metres above sea level.

Sir Bobby Robson launched his Foundation in 2008 and it has gone on to raise over £11 million to find more effective ways to detect and treat cancer.

Liz Luff, of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, said: “Our thanks to everyone who is supporting their efforts.”