A FUNDRAISER from York will take on some of the toughest peaks in the Alps during a three-day cycling challenge in memory of his father.

Nigel Clarkson, 42, aims to cycle 315 kilometres in three days, taking in six of the ascents tackled by competitors in the Tour de France – including the steep hair-pin bends of the famous Alpe d’Huez.

His highest climb will be to the top of the 2,646-metre Col du Galibier, while his longest climb will be a 25-kilometre slog to the summit of Col de la Madeleine.

Nigel, who works as an IT manager for Funkwerk IT, in York, aims to raise at least £1,800 for Macmillan Cancer Support in memory of his father, Derek, who died of lung cancer in 1997.

He said: “After my dad died, I promised myself I would one day do something for Macmillan to thank them for helping during his illness and so they can help other cancer sufferers in the future. When I was young my dad used to tell me how he once cycled from his home to the top of Sutton Bank, where he camped overnight and cycled home the next day.

“The round trip was about 60 miles and to me this was impossible – I didn’t believe he or anyone could cycle such a long way.

“Once I took up cycling I came to understand that 60 miles in two days is not a particularly long way – sorry Dad – and I think he would be amazed and quite proud that I’m doing this cycling challenge in the Alps.”

Nigel, who lives with his wife and six-year-old daughter in Heworth, said he was currently cycling about 120 miles a week in preparation for the Alpine ride in September.

To sponsor him, log on to his online fundraising page, justgiving.com/nigel-clarkson, or phone Macmillan’s York office on 01904 756404.