By James Barrett

Carshalton Athletic’s academy director Ian Hazel is getting on his bike in aid of charity this July.

He is to tackle the famous Lands End to John O'Groats journey, which is more than 900 miles, starting on July 20. All donations and proceeds will go to Cancer Research.

Hazel said: "I have wanted to do something like this for a while.

"I sadly lost my mum to the disease 10 years ago and this will mark the anniversary in 2013."

The former defender turned coach has been in training with a friend who is an experienced cyclist.

"He has been helping me prepare and I'm aiming to finish the trip in 10 days,” he added.

“I’ve been on many smaller long distance rides but I wanted to challenge myself for this – I’m looking forward to it.”

Donations can be made to support Hazel in his endeavour via: www.justgiving.com/ian-hazel