KIDNEY transplant patient Tom Cahill is set to lead a 130 mile bike ride to raise cash for fellow sufferers next month. Tom, 51, originally from Detroit, Michigan, was given a new kidney by his brother in May 1994, but took up cycling again after less than a year and is already fitter than most people half his age. Last year he organised an identical event when 25 cyclists took up the challenge, raising £1,100 for charity.

Now he hopes to double that number of entrants in the ride planned for May 26, Bank Holiday Sunday, which will start at Caton.

He said: "It took me a few months to get back into good shape. I'm fitter than most people, but not as fit as I once was - after a transplant you don't get back to normal.

But it is a million times better than dialysis, he added, because he can travel without worrying about finding a dialysis centre.

"Some of the money we raise will go to Withington Renal Unit where I'm a patient, so hopefully this will help give something back," he explained.

Besides raising money for a worthy cause, Tom, who is moving to Lancaster next week, hopes participants will enjoy the ride and the sense of personal achievement gained by finishing the route.

The route follows the North Lancashire Cycleway, going to Arnside, over to Kirkby Lonsdale, down the Lune and on to Slaidburn, then through Waddington, Longridge, Inglewhite, Kirkham, Elswick, Cockerham and back to Caton.

Tom said: "It is a massive undertaking and a serious challenge to any cyclist - just 16 finished the ride last year."

Shorter routes are available, and the shortest - 40 miles - avoids the long climb to Slaidburn.

The event, called Serious Annual Charity Ride for Everyone's Delight (SACRED), will set off at 8am from the Station Hotel car park in Caton. Those wishing to take part should arrive a 7.30am.

Sponsorship forms and route details can be obtained from Lancaster cycle shops or by ringing (01524) 593321.

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