STAFF at a north Durham charity are raising money for a leukaemia charity with a 55-mile sponsored bike ride.

Three people from Consett YMCA are supporting the Bright Red event from Seahouses to Paddy Freeman Park, near Jesmond, on May 17.

They are riding in memory of 35-year-old activities co-ordinator Lee Robson, who died from the blood cancer disease in summer 2013, and was an ambassador for the charity.

His father, Billy Robson, the YMCA’s chief executive, said: “Doing a ride like this is nothing compared to what people who are suffering from leukaemia have to go through.

“Thinking about how strong Lee was is what keeps me going. He was a massive supporter of Bright Red and raising money in his name keeps his memory alive.”

The charity is also hosting a 5k run starting and ending at Paddy Freeman Park on the same day with registration at 11am.

The ride is now in its fifth year and taking part costs £25.

Ashley Elliott, from Bright Red, said: “Participants of previous rides raised enough funds to employ the first Bright Red Outreach Nurse for three years.

“Billy and his family have taken on Lee’s fundraising legacy to help patients in the same position as Lee.

“They fundraise for the Lee Robson Patient Care Grants, which are given to patient in need of emergency funds.”

Anyone interested in finding out more can visit www.brightred.org.uk for more information.