A TEACHER from Radlett will take on a daunting challenge to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Relief, after being struck with the disease himself.

Mr Eric Hill, of Crosspath, Radlett, who teaches science at Bentley Wood School, Harrow Weald, was off work for ten months, after he was diagnosed with cancer two years ago. His treatment included surgery on the colon, and six months of chemotherapy.

Mr Hill, who is now due to retire from his teaching post, will take up a cycling challenge in Ecuador, South America, with at least 60 people, from Saturday, October 12, to Thursday, October 24, to raise money for cancer research.

He said: "This event will push participants to their limits with heat, altitude, huge climbs and rough camping to test their endurance. The 512km trip will start in Ecuador's dense tropical rainforests, and climb to an altitude of 3,300 miles high in the Andes mountains before passing through a steamy jungle down to the Pacific Coast. The event and the preparation will be tough, but I am doing this to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Relief.

"I have to raise a minimum of £2,500 in order to take part in this event and hope people will consider sponsoring me, contributions of any size will be appreciated. Sponsors giving £15, or more, will receive a free CD of South American guitar music played by me."

He said four in ten people in the UK, would be affected by cancer, he explained the Macmillan Cancer Relief money, would help to fund specialist nurses and doctors, and help people in financial difficulties.

Cheques can be made payable to Middleman Cancer Relief Trading, for more information telephone 0207 28404620/0207 8404654.

September 30, 2002 12:30