A BIG-HEARTED councillor is swapping walking the streets of Halesowen canvassing for a 145 mile bike ride for charity.

Halesowen North Councillor Stuart Henley, a serving firefighter, has signed up to ride from Barnsley FC to Amsterdam in June to raise money and awareness for prostate cancer.

He will be joining his best mate Bill Campbell and former footballers Les Ferdinand, Terry Butcher and Simon Grayson as well as hundreds of other riders for the Prostate Cancer UK bike ride starting on June 9.

Cllr Henley said: "I had a prostate cancer scare a few years ago but thankfully it turned out to be nothing and Bill has had a family member affected by the disease.

"He convinced me over a few beers to do the ride, and we now need to raise £1,000 each to get onto the ride, and obviously get into training as I've not rode for four years."

He added: "I've had a week now getting my legs moving on the indoor trainer, there has been some painful times and I am not sure what gas been worse my legs or my backside sat on the seat."

He added: "However, what will keep me going is this great cause."

Cllr Henley has already clocked up over £450 and added: "Thanks to all that have so far sponsored me and those who will be."

Prostate cancer effects around 47,000 men a year, that's 130 a day.

Councillor Henley added: "I urge all men to check themselves or to get your other-half to do so at least once a month.

"Most lumps are not cancerous but if you find anything unusual then get in to your doctor as soon as possible."

To donate to Cllr Henley's appeal visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/stuart-henley