A WREXHAM man diagnosed with Parkinson's is taking on a cycle challenge in aid of a charity supporting those with the condition.

Simon Bland, alongside a team of incredible fundraisers, is set to take on the notoriously brutal Mont Ventoux cycle challenge. The group will aim to traverse the famous Mont Ventoux in Provence, France three times in one day, a feat also known as the 'Club des Cinglés' challenge. The group will be cycling to raise funds and awareness for Cure Parkinson's, a charity dedicated to finding a cure for the condition.

Read more: Celebrating those who make a difference in their communities

To ascend and descend Mont Ventoux three times will see the cyclists cover an incredible 4,443m of ascent more than 136km. Known for it's arid, rocky terrain, the mountain will require cyclists to brave the elements of the day to reach the summit.

The June 15 event will not be Simon's first experience of taking on a cycle challenge for Cure Parkinson's, as in 2022 he and a team took on Raid Alpine; setting off from the shores of Lake Geneva, they negotiated undulating and at times treacherous Alpine roads for six days before reaching their finish line in Nice.

Read more: Wrexham couple's skydive fundraiser as 'thank you' to children's hospital

Simon, diagnosed in 2018, said: "Ventoux is a bucket list ride and to do it with the same team with whom I rode Raid Alpine last year made it an easy decision, although I probably have not fully appreciated what an immense challenge the triple ascent attempt will be for me.

"It can be hard work keeping on top of Parkinson's and some days are more challenging than others. For me, it is typically stiffness, cramps, fatigue and muscle spasms, and exercise is a great tonic at alleviating the symptoms.

"This challenge is about tackling Parkinson's head on and demonstrating to myself and others with Parkinson's that, whilst a real pain in the butt, it does not have to stop you from trying to live as full and active life as possible."

Read more: Team of Flintshire staff take on 'bucket list' Three Peaks challenge

He added: "Another important reason for doing this is to raise money for Cure Parkinson's. Finding a cure is close to my heart, and this charity plays a huge part in the search."

Simon has also gone above and beyond to raise even more funds for Cure Parkinson's by playing a huge part in garnering sponsors of the cycle, the names of whom will appear on the 'Raid Ventoux' jersey that the cyclists will wear on the day.

To support Simon and the team, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/simon-bland8