Ely resident, Gerd Ellsmore raised £2,500 for blood cancer charity Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research by taking part in the largest charity cycle ride ever to be hosted in Birmingham.

The 42-year-old challenged himself to the epic 100-mile route in the Birmingham Bikeathon on September 21.

Unfortunately, due to Gerd suffering a slipped disc a week before the bikeathon, he had to retire after 60 miles.

In September 2012, Gerd’s wife Donna was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia. After an ear infection failed to clear up following a round of antibiotics, Donna was referred to Addenbrooke’s Hospital for further tests and a consultation with a haematology specialist. Results from blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy confirmed that she had leukaemia.

Donna underwent chemotherapy immediately and achieved remission in February 2013. Then in early 2014 Donna began to feel unwell again. Subsequent blood tests revealed the worst - the leukaemia had returned. She began further chemotherapy treatment and had a stem cell transplant in August.

Gerd says: “The ride was hard work but really enjoyable. The support from people out on the road and also from the Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research staff and volunteers was brilliant.

“The charity is so dear to my heart and I’m delighted to have raised such a good amount of money for the cause. We’ll definitely be back next year.”

To support Gerd please visit www.beatingbloodcancers.org.uk/gerd-ellsmore or text BBKN14 + £amount to 70070