A 77-YEAR-OLD, who's prostate cancer returned, completed his 25th twenty-four mile marathon to raise awareness of the disease and money for charity.

Mike McCann, who was first diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2005 which later returned, completed the Swaledale Marathon to raise awareness of the disease and funds for the South Tees Hospitals Charity.

The retired deputy principle, said he wanted to encourage men of all ages to get themselves checked for the early signs of prostate cancer, while raising vital cash.

He said: “I wanted to raise awareness this year for men of all ages to get themselves checked for prostate cancer because it’s so important to catch it early.

"The statistics speak for themselves, one in eight men are diagnosed with prostate cancer in the UK.

“It was my choice this year where the money raised would go and I could think of no better place than South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust where I received all my treatment.

"It’s not even an original choice as I know that Swift-tees raised money for the trust’s chemotherapy day unit and ward 14 in the past.”

Mr McCann was operated on by David Chadwick, medical director and urology consultant at the trust, who described the 77-year-old as an "inspiration".

He said: "Mike has shown remarkable powers of recovery and is an inspiration - his fighting spirit and ability to conquer obstacles put in his way are quite exceptional. We are very grateful to the money he continues to raise on our behalf.”

Mr McCann added: "After surgery David advised me that the cancer may return and sadly despite being clear for a number of years the cancer returned.

"I finished my 33 sessions of radiotherapy early this year and decided I would celebrate by taking part in the Swaledale Marathon in June.”

Mr Mccann was one of 34 members of the Swift-tees community running group, who took part in the marathon in extreme weather conditions.

The group managed to raise a total of around £2,000 for the charity.