THREE men whose lives have been touched by cancer have completed a gruelling 105-mile race across Scotland.

Lee Aldred, from Gorleston, and Philip Oliver and Matthew Alp, both from Bradwell, took part in the Nokia Scotland Coast to Coast challenge which was held last weekend in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

The two-day event saw the men cycle 81 miles, run 21 miles and kayak three miles from Nairn to Glencoe across the varying terrains and weather of the Scottish Highlands.

Lee, 30, finished 94th overall in 11hrs, 57mins and 28secs. Matt, 35, was 165th in 12hrs 50mins and 54secs and Phil, 30, was 300th position in 14hrs, 42mins and 47secs.

The second day saw them on course for at least seven hours each on difficult off-road surfaces as part of the final 14-mile run over Ben Nevis.

Lee said: “All three of us have had our lives affected by cancer in one way or another.

“More recently both Matt and Phil have lost parents due to differing forms of cancer so when we decided to do this we wanted to raise money for something close to our hearts and to show our thanks.

“Both Phil and Matt thought they would try and give a little back for all the invaluable help they got near the end whilst caring for their parents.

“After discussing the many different services and individuals that helped them along the way we are very proud to say we are raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

“Although the money will only go a small way in showing how grateful we are, we hope it will go to helping someone else in their time of need.”

The men have raised more than �2,000 and are continuing to accept donations. To donate visit www.justgiving.com/scotlandc2c2011/

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