A CYCLIST has been inspired to use his pedal power to take on The Prostate Cancer Charity ride after losing his father to the disease.

Steve Proctor, of King Street, Leek, pictured right, will follow in the tracks of professional cyclists competing in the Tour Of Britain.

He will ride 70km (43 miles) of the Stoke-On-Trent leg of the event, which has been opened up to the public for the first time. The 53-year-old's father, Ian Proctor, died last year, aged 83, following a long battle with prostate cancer.

And the cycling challenge on September 6 will fall close to the anniversary of his death.

Father-of-two Steve, who is a quality manager at Pulse Fitness, Congleton, is determined to push himself to show his support for The Prostate Cancer Charity.

He said: "I'm training five days a week for about three hours each time.

"The ride will fall around the anniversary of my dad's death so it will be quite an emotional day.

"My wife and sons will be there to cheer me on, which will be a great support."

To raise money for The Prostate Cancer Charity, and sign up for one of the limited spaces, register online at www.thisisstaffordshire .co.uk/tourofbritain