Cyclists' 300-mile ride for breast cancer patients

A group of 20 cyclists, made up of medical staff, charity workers and breast cancer survivors, have set off from Worcestershire on a 300-mile fundraising journey to France.

The route takes the group from the Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven, in Worcester, and all the way to Brest, in the French north west.

Breast surgeon Steven Thrush, speaking at the start line, said: "We're all here, we're all excited. It's terrifying but we've got 20 of us all dressed up and it's sunny, which is brilliant."

He said the cyclists were already nearing their £20,000 goal for the unit which helps those with breast cancer.

Speaking live to BBC Hereford and Worcester just before the 08:00 BST start time on Friday, Thrush continued: "I'm very proud of the people who have volunteered to come and do this.

"It's so we can provide the services that are so needed. I think that's the real aim. We're so grateful for all the support."

The unit supports about 800 people each year who are diagnosed with breast cancer in Worcestershire.

Julie Cross, who is part of the cycling team, said: "I was diagnosed just over 10 years ago and I used the services at the Haven.

"I think, even though family and friends are really supportive, it's so important to meet other people going through it.

"They know how you feel and it's just a really special place."

Discussing the cycling challenge, she said: "I've been a cyclist for quite a while, I got kind of press-ganged into it by my sister.

"But there's 20 of us doing it and I think cycling has really been my meditation after being ill, I was really chuffed to be able to get back to it.

"I'm very lucky that 10 years on I'm able to take something on like this, other people have perhaps not been so lucky.

"I still get symptoms from some of the treatment but everyone has been really helpful and I've been volunteering with the unit just helping out with events."

Follow BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.