A CRUSADING health campaigner who conquered cancer is raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Retired paramedic Steve Evans, from Runcorn, only found out had mouth cancer as he prepared to tackle the 100k Liverpool Nightrider last year.

The 63-year-old wanted to do the challenge in memory of his dad Colin, 62, who died from bowel cancer.

He was only able to complete half the distance but still managed to raise £450.

Now after successful surgery, he is determined to finish the marathon which takes in many Merseyside landmarks with a 55k route round Wirral and a further 45k loop through the moonlit streets of Liverpool.

"I'm going out two to three times a week and adding 10 miles each time," said dad-of-one Steve, of Hawthorn Avenue.

"Last week I did 40 miles. I'm fit as a butcher's dog.

Around 300 cyclists are expected to join the midnight charity bike ride on July 14.

Steve, a paramedic for 44 years, was awarded the MBE in 2015 for his Don't Walk Away campaign which he developed after being called to treat a 12-year-old boy in Widnes who had been left sprawled on his back by his friends after drinking too much alcohol.

The campaign which launched in 2011 is now run around the world and offers advice on what to do in the case of emergency, the dangers of under-age drinking, choking and hypothermia.

Steve now wants to raise awareness about cancer.

"My dad didn't spot the warning signs and by the time he got his bowel cancer diagnosis it was too late," said Steve.

"I'd urge anyone with any worrying symptoms to seek advice. If you suspect something isn't right, take action."

Nicole McIlveen, fundraising manager for Macmillan in Liverpool, said: "It is wonderful that Steve, with his many years of experience in medicine and in campaigning has chosen to fundraise for us.

"It's amazing that he wants to highlight the importance of early diagnosis as well.

"His story is an amazing one and we with him the best of luck in the Nightrider."

To donate visit justgiving.com/fundraising/steve-evans-mbe2 or text MBES62 £5 to 70070.