Two-time Derbyshire cancer survivor takes on 100km challenge for charity after life-saving surgery

John Bestwick, 49, from Ripley, will tackle the Cotswold Way Ultra Challenge from 13-14 June alongside his son Archie and close friends, raising money for Bowel Cancer UK.

John was diagnosed with bowel cancer in February 2025, just a year after overcoming skin cancer.

He underwent a nine-hour operation the following month, during which 24 lymph nodes were removed. After a 10-day hospital stay and a three-stone weight loss, tests confirmed the cancer had not spread elsewhere in his body.

As part of his treatment, John lived with a stoma for seven months before undergoing reversal surgery in October 2025.

Now cancer-free, he is determined to turn his experience into something positive. John and his team are taking on the 100km continuous walk, a challenge that will see them push through day and night with no sleep until they reach the finish line.

He said: “After everything I’ve been through, I wanted to do something that gives something back. This is going to be tough, but it’s nothing compared to what many people face with this disease.”

The group has already smashed their original £3,500 fundraising target, raising nearly £7,000 so far for Bowel Cancer UK. Bowel cancer is the UK’s second deadliest cancer, claiming almost 17,000 lives every year.

The Cotswold Way Ultra Challenge will see thousands walk, jog or run distances of up to 100km along the Cotswold Way National Trail.

John said: “We’re doing this as a team, with my son and close mates, and that makes it even more special. If we can raise awareness and funds that help save lives, then every step will be worth it.”

Limited places remain for the Cotswold Way Ultra Challenge from 13-14 June. To find out more, visit www.ultrachallenge.com/cotswold-way-challenge/

To support John’s fundraising for Bowel Cancer UK, visit: www.justgiving.com/page/john-bestwick-2