LEUKAEMIA survivor and Bromsgrove resident Jonjo Rooney and his friend, Andy Johnson, have raised £1,650 for research into the disease.

They took matters into their own hands when they heard the North Worcestershire Bikeathon, scheduled for last month, had been cancelled because of floods. Undaunted, they decided to cycle the 28-mile ride on their own instead.

Jonjo, 24, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in December 2006 and had to endure intensive chemotherapy.

A stem cell transplant followed in July 2007 in the Birmingham Queen Elizabeth Hospital and happily he is now in complete remission.

He said: "The North Worcestershire Bikeathon has provided me with a physical challenge and the money raised will certainly make a difference, helping to ensure that one day we can see the back of leukaemia. I am thrilled with the response I have had from people who have supported me and I just had to do the 28 miles!”

Jonjo’s fundraising efforts will go directly to Leukaemia Research to help find better treatments and cures for blood cancers.

You can still support Jonjo by going to his website: http://www.justgiving.com/jonjorooney.

TWO DECADES OF FUNDRAISING.

NICOLE Harris, the North Worcestershire Bikeathon organiser, and the members of Leukaemia Research's Bromsgrove and District Voluntary Branch are celebrating their 20th anniversary. Over the years they had raised £650,000 for the charity. New volunteers are always welcome. For further details contact Nicola on 01527 878493 or email nicnoelharris@aol.com