Halton MP Derek Twigg is backing an 'inspirational' Widnes cyclist who plans to complete the entire Tour de France route in aid of blood cancer care.

Liam Mahoney is tackling the Tour 21 in June next year on behalf of Cure Leukaemia. The journey will see a team of 25 amateur cyclists take on all 21 stages of the 2024 Tour de France route, one week ahead of the professional race - all with the aim of raising more than £1million for Cure Leukaemia.

The charity funds research nurses and clinical roles at 15 blood cancer centres across the UK, providing access to pioneering and potentially life-saving treatments through clinical trials.

Liam said: "This is going to be the hardest physical and mental challenge I will ever face as an amateur cyclist.

"Whilst fulfilling a childhood dream to ride in the footsteps of my idols at the Tour de France, I will raise serious money to benefit this amazing charity and the work they do to save lives."

The route starts in Tuscany and will tackle every stage of the 3,500km route - one of the world's most gruelling sporting challenges. The route will see them pass through many different countries and terrains before finishing in Nice.

Derek Twigg said: "Liam’s efforts are an inspiration, and I hope that the community in Halton will be able to come together and give him our support for the Tour 21.

"We know that for many of those impacted by this terrible disease, there just isn’t enough support out there.

"Every pound raised will make a big difference to peoples’ lives and so I will be giving Liam my full backing."

To read about Liam’s story and donate to his fundraiser, visit.