TWO friends diagnosed with cancer on the same day have launched a fund-raising challenge for the hospital which treated them after both went into remission.

Stephen Hobson and John Carter have completed their treatment and want to give something back to Manchester's famous Christie Hospital.

Father-of-three Stephen, 39, of Deerplay Drive, Weir, was diagnosed with testicular cancer and John, 48, from Moorland Terrace, Bacup, had cancer of the oesophagus.

Both will have to continue to have regular check-ups and have up to wait five years for the all clear.

They are both completing the Manchester to Blackpool cycle ride with about 10 friends, most of whom will be cycling from their Rossendale homes to Manchester first, and then completing the ride.

They are hoping the 130-mile trip will raise £10,000 for Christie's guided radiotherapy appeal.

Stephen said: "We are holding a fund-raising 70s night tonight at Bacup Leisure Hall from 7.30pm when duo Souled and Seen will be entertaining and we are hoping people are going come in 70s clothes. We held a similar one in February when we raised £700.

"I am getting back to fitness now and got back on my bike in November but then was knocked off in December by a car pulling out from a junction.

"That set me back a few months but I am now fit and if I had to do the ride tomorrow I would be able to."

Stephen is married to Jane and has three daughters Samantha, 15, Simone, 13, and Lucy, 11.

The girls go to All Saints' High School, Rawtenstall, and Fearns' High, Stacksteads. All Saints has already agreed to hold an event to help with the fund-raising. Tickets for the 70s night are £6 and include a pie and peas supper and are available from 01706 878151 or on the door.