Three supporters of a Colchester cancer awareness charity are taking their message on the road when they cycle from Lands End to John O’Groats.

Three supporters of a Colchester cancer awareness charity are taking their message on the road when they cycle from Lands End to John O’Groats.

Toby Freeman, chief executive of the Robin Cancer Trust (RCT), along with David Pomphrett and James Cudmore will pedal the 1,000 miles in just 10 days.

But as well as fundraising for the RCT, they will also speak to local media and do talks with as many groups as possible along the route in a bid to get as many people as possible to check themselves for cancer.

The RCT was formed in memory of Mr Freeman’s brother Robin, who died of testicular cancer aged just 24 in 2011. The charity promotes awareness of germ cell cancers, the two most common forms of which are testicular and ovarian cancer.

Its most recent campaigns, “You’re Not Ovary-acting” and “Talking B******s”, encourage people aged 16-35 – those most at risk of germ cell cancers – to take the time to check themselves for symptoms.

Mr Freeman said: “This is the first time we will be expanding outside of our local area.

“Having the opportunity to reach people throughout the UK and spread our message of awareness whilst on the road is paramount to reaching our goal of saving young lives.

“It’s going to be a pretty intense trip, but raising awareness for this rare form of cancer makes it all worth it.”

The riders will be backed up with two friends in a support van, which will also be covered in awareness messages.

Mr Pomphrett, the only member of the team to have ridden the route before, added: “I have completed this challenge before but I have a huge respect for the Freemans and what they have created out of the worst possible situation.

“Having brothers of my own I feel it’s my responsibility to do whatever I can to try and help support the Robin Cancer Trust and their awareness campaigns.”

The group set off yesterday, and hope to raise £3,000 to support the charity’s work.

To track the group’s progress visit their Facebook page or sponsor them at their Justgiving page.