A PROSTATE cancer survivor is celebrating his return to good health by helping to fund vital research.

Alan Deller, 59, from York, was diagnosed with cancer in March 2004 - three years after suffering a heart attack.

Now fully recovered, Alan is gearing up to tackle the Wetherby Cycle Ride on Sunday, in support of Cancer Research UK's Man Alive '05 campaign.

Alan, of Paddock Way, was following a healthy heart programme through his GP when the cancer was detected by a prostrate specific antigen (PSA) test on a blood sample at a routine health check.

He underwent five months of hormone treatment to reduce the size of his enlarged prostate, and spent two days in hospital undergoing brachytherapy - a procedure where small radioactive "seeds" are put into the prostate gland.

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed male cancer in the UK, with over 30,000 new cases and 10,000 deaths each year.

Alan said: "I was very fortunate to have my cancer detected early and had a number of treatment options available to me.

"Having access to reliable information so I could make an informed decision was really important.

"I'm delighted to be able to lend my support to Man Alive '05 and to the Wetherby Cycle Ride."

The Wetherby Cycle Ride, sponsored by Cyclesense of Tadcaster, offers a 30-mile and a 20-mile route.

Most of the ride is on quiet roads and cycle paths over flat terrain, with the occasional gentle hill.

The event will start at 10.30am from the car park of the high school in Hallfield Road, Wetherby, at the rear of Morrison's Supermarket. The ride is open to adults and children over the age of 12.

Single entry costs £6, children £3 and a family entry, for a maximum of four people costs £14.

For registration and sponsorship forms, phone Ann Newton on 01937 841470 or email newtonbspa@btinternet.com.

For information on York's prostate cancer support group, phone Alyson Brandom on 01904 725848.

Information about cancer can be found at www.cancerhelp.org.uk. Alternatively, speak confidentially to a Cancer Research UK information nurse on 0800 226237, phone the prostate support helpline on 0845 601 0766 or visit www.prostatecancer.org.uk.

Updated: 10:28 Thursday, June 02, 2005