DOCTOR'S receptionist Diane Bibby came up with her own cure to help ailing funds of the Oldham-based cancer charity Maggie's.

She took to an exercise bike in her own Diggle back garden to cycle the 928-mile distance from John o' Groats to Lands' End.

Friends, family and wellwishers have so far contributed more than £2,600 to the cause.

Diane, 57, explained: "I have been on the fundraising group for Maggie's and was asked to take on being chair recently.

"I thought I'd try to set an example by doing the 'cycle ride'. Like many charities, Maggie's has been badly affected by the coronavirus pandemic because so many events have had to be cancelled."

Grandmother of one Diane continued: "I didn't even own a bike, and I wasn't at all fit when I started.

"I've been slotting it around helping home schooling my five-year-old granddaughter Evie.

She completed the ride over six weekends, often cycling for four or five hours a day, and on one day she cycled for seven hours.

"I feel a lot fitter now," said Diane. "My legs are rock solid and I'm even thinking about buying a proper biker now.

"I was shattered when I finished and my muscles were extremely sore. But I had great view from my back garden as I was doing the ride."

Diane, a receptionist at a doctor's practice in Holmfirth, is still receiving money for her efforts on her JustGiving page. Contributions can be made by visiting https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/diane-bibby