Partners at Cheshire law firm pair up as pedal power provides vital funds for skin cancer fight

Watsons Solicitors partners Chris Illingworth and Danny Hudson dusted off the Lycra and hit the road to raise more than £4,400 for Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends.

The duo joined organiser, Professor Sandip Hindocha, on the 163-mile cycle challenge from Warrington to Bedford aimed at raising awareness of skin cancer.

Tasked with completing the ride in under 36 hours, the group completed its mission and smashed the £1,000 target.

Residential conveyancing solicitor Chris said: “It was tough going for a group of people who aren’t regular cyclists but doing it for a worthy cause certainly inspired us to push through the pain.

“As well as the physical demands of cycling 163 miles, adding in three punctures, a split tyre and having to direct the group meant it was certainly eventful. Thankfully the weather was kind, and spirits remained high throughout.

“I’m proud that we completed the challenge and can have even a small impact on helping the fight against skin cancer.”

Danny, member of the family law department, admitted that he was not as prepared for riding from Warrington to Bedford as he might have been.

He wrote: “A little word to the wise – it turns out it’s a bit difficult and do a spot of training first.

“Thanks to everyone who popped a penny in the pot, it all goes to a good cause.”

The ride has provided important funds for raising awareness of the illness with latest figures reporting that 2,300 people die of melanoma skin cancer – the rarest but most aggressive form – per year.

There are also more than 700 non-melanoma skin cancer deaths every 12 months in the UK. Non-melanoma refers to any cancer that forms in the basal, squamous or merkel cells of the skin.

Danny added: “If you’ve got a lump, if you’ve got a bump, don’t be scared of going to the doctor and go out and get it checked.

“It’s just about taking five minutes and checking yourself out.”

To support the cycle challenge, visit the Peoples Fundraising Website

Watsons Solicitors, which has been established for more than 60 years, specialises in family law, employment law, wills and probate, and conveyancing.

The team of experienced solicitors each hold various accreditations and memberships of professional bodies relevant to their expertise, while the firm’s partners oversee all areas of work.