Making Every Mile Count: Derek’s 75-Mile Challenge

08 July 2026

Local Hero Derek, 75, Cycles 75 Miles to Support Cancer Research

derek farndell cancer research charity bike ride MIX56 — Derek Farndell joins Smithy & Ian on the MIX56 breakfast show

Phil

SMITHY & IAN
GOOD MORNING CHESHIRE

There are some stories that truly remind us what community spirit is all about and this is one of them

This Saturday, 75-year-old Derek Farndell is taking on an incredible challenge: a 75-mile bike ride from Ironbridge to Hazel Grove, in just one day, all in support of North West Cancer Research.

Derek is marking his 75th year in a remarkable way, turning a personal milestone into a powerful mission to give back. Cancer has touched the lives of many people close to him over the years, and it’s a cause that now sits firmly at the heart of everything he’s doing.

On his own journey, Derek is choosing determination, positivity, and purpose — showing us all what it means to make every day count.

His challenge, The 75 Ride for NWCR, is not just about distance — it’s about making a difference.

Every mile he pedals is helping to raise vital funds and awareness for life-saving research.

“People say to me, ‘you’re too old to do this… you’re too ill to do this.’ I say, so what? You’ve got to keep going — life’s too short.”

Derek Farndell

There’s already been a fantastic show of support from Smithy and Ian on breakfast, giving Derek’s JustGiving page a welcome boost. But with a goal of £500 in sight, there’s still time for our listeners to get behind him and help push him over the finish line.

As Derek says on his fundraising page:

I’m taking on this ride to support a cause close to his heart, and any support — big or small — will help make a real difference.

So, if you can spare even a small donation, it would mean the world — not just to Derek, but to everyone impacted by cancer.

Let’s come together as a community and show Derek that he’s not riding alone.

You can support Derek’s journey here: Derek’s Just Giving Page