A man in his fifties has died after collapsing on this year's overnight Manchester to Blackpool charity ride.
The man was taking part in the annual 52-mile ride from Old Trafford cricket ground to Blackpool promenade to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation (BHF).
A report in the Manchester Evening News say the man collapsed a few miles from the finish in Lytham St Anne's at around 5:30 am on Sunday morning.
He was treated at the scene by North West Ambulance Service before being taken to Blackpool's Victoria Hospital where he sadly passed away.
A statement from ride organisers BHF said:
"We are very sad to confirm that a cyclist taking part in our Manchester to Blackpool bike ride was taken to hospital and has passed away.
"We would like to extend our sincerest condolences to his family."
The iconic Manchester to Blackpool ride raises thousands of pounds for the BHF each year. One thousand five hundred riders set off from Trafford at around midnight and follow a signposted and marshaled route to the seaside at Blackpool, finishing under the town's famous illuminations which are kept on for the occasion.
The BHF website says of the event: "It'll be hard work but as you cycle up Blackpool Promenade, under the dazzling lights and cross the finish line in time to watch the sunrise over the sea, safe in the knowledge you've just completed a tough challenge in order to help save lives."
Entries for the 2019 edition, which takes place on Saturday 5 - Sunda 6 October 2019, are now open at www.bhf.org.uk.
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