A BUSINESS owner is cycling 60-miles to raise money for people diagnosed with prostate cancer after being diagnosed with the illness himself.

Marvin Winthrop, 63, who has just taken over the Bournemouth-based garment alterations and tailoring business, The ZipYard, is hoping to collect £500 in donations for the Prostate Cancer Research Centre by taking on the London to Oxford route.

It is the second time that he has taken on a test of endurance after pedalling alongside thousands of other cyclists in the 45-mile Palace to Palace Challenge from Buckingham Palace to Windsor Castle.

Marvin said: "I was diagnosed with prostate cancer over a year ago which has meant the past twelve months has been tough for my family and me. "We’ve soldiered on leading our lives as normal as we possibly can.

"I really enjoyed the Palace to Palace challenge and I’m pleased I’m in a position where I can physically still raise money for such a great cause.

"I’ve been training hard for my upcoming cycle but I can’t wait to do it."

Marvin said that his father also died of prostate cancer in 2009 and he has been told that there is a genetic link, so his two sons must be tested when they reach the age of 40.

He said that he is pleased to have take over the reins of a popular business within the town, before adding: "The ZipYard Bournemouth is trading brilliantly and I’m looking forward to taking it to new heights.

"I plan to build on the customer-base that already exists and continue to provide Bournemouth with a top quality service."

Prostate Cancer mainly affects men over 50 and the risk increases with age. It is the most common type of cancer in men, with over 130 men each day being told the news that they have the illness. It is also estimated that one in eight men will get prostate cancer at some point in their lifetime.

For more information on Marvin's fundraising, go to Justgiving.com/Marvin-Winthrop3