OPTICIAN Stuart Ingleby is to ride 300 miles across Spain to raise money for the Genesis Appeal to build Europe's first breast cancer prevention unit.

The director of Specsavers in Blackburn will begin the sponsored ride in November, cycling eight hours a day for five days. Starting at the Spanish coastline the trek will finish at Ronda, 3,000 feet above sea level.

On Tuesday Stuart, rode 45 miles from his home in Stockport to work in Blackburn to help prepare for the journey.

Stuart, who was moved to take part following the death of a close friend from breast cancer aged 36, said: "I have been trying hard so I shouldn't find it too difficult, but it is a very tough route.

"There are about 20 of us taking part and we are aiming to raise £70,000. We have all lost a great friend to breast cancer so it is a cause close to all our hearts.

"Not only will the centre undertake research into the causes and treatment of cancer it will also be an invaluable help for women in the North West who will be able to visit for support and advice."

The Genesis Appeal aims to raise £10million to build a specialist breast cancer prevention centre at Manchester's Wythenshawe Hospital.