AN island club member is preparing to cycle more than 800 miles in aid of a cancer charity.

James Pegram, member of Rotary Satellite club of Canvey, will ride from John O’Groats to Canvey to raise money for a number of causes.

The Rotary Ride helps to save lives by increasing awareness and early diagnosis of prostate cancer.

The cash raised will go towards the Rotary Ride for Prostate Cancer UK, Irish Cancer Society, Prostate CYMRU.com and Prostate Scotland.

The event begins on Wednesday June 5 and James will arrive on Canvey Seafront on Sunday June 16.

Canvey Coast Rotary Club will be joining with Canvey Rotary Clubs annual raft race to celebrate James’s arrive.

A club spokesman said: “We are so proud of James already.

“What he is doing is truly so inspirational.

“We do of course wish him all the best for his ride and the whole challenge.

“He is expected to be recording his journey in a daily blog which will include the ups, the downs, the beautiful scenery of Scotland and England, the fun, laughter and most importantly the fellowship of Rotary members, family and friends.

“We hope he can raise as much money as he can for this wonderful cause.

“We want to encourage as many people as we can to donate to the online page and help James to reach his fundraising target.

“There will be lots to see and do on the day which makes for a brilliant family day out.

“Donations can be made via justgiving and donations on the day.” Mr Pegram has set up the online funding page with Just Giving.

He had a target of £2,000 and has collected £60 so far.

The Rotary Ride is a series of events being held around June 15 and 16 in aid of the cancer charities.

Prostate Cancer UK works to help stop men dying from the illness.

Through shifting the science over the next ten years to focus on radical improvements in diagnosis, treatment, prevention and support, the charity aims to stop prostate cancer being a killer.

Go to www.justgiving.com and search for Canvey Coast Rotary Satellite Club Rotaryride.