A DOCTOR has triumphed over a gruelling 65-mile bike ride to help fund a new unit at The Fed.

GP Deborah Joseph cycled from Manchester to Blackpool to fundraise for the new nursing unit at the Heathlands Village Care Centre, which will be named after her late father Dr Simon Jenkins MBE.

Dr Jenkins, who died last year aged 79, was a GP in Wash Lane and at Minden Medical Group Practice in Minden Parade for over 50 years. Awarded an MBE for services to his patients in 1992, he was also a former vice chairman of The Fed and was instrumental in introducing the Gold Standards Framework for end of life care to the Heathlands Village.

Dr Joseph said: "In the final 14 months of his life Dad was cared for in the excellent nursing unit at Heathlands Village. This is why it is so it’s fitting to raise money for the unit in his name.

"I would be thrilled if any of his former patients or colleagues would help honour his memory by helping me reach our target.”

Dr Joseph was joined on her ride by her husband Howard and friends Richard Harris, Anthony Dennison and Sheldon Bean.

The team are hoping to raise £10,000 for the new unit and are nearing their target.

The new unit, which is expected to cost over £80,000, will be based in The Fed's Eventhall House featuring 14 bedrooms as well as two lounge areas, a dining room and an assisted bathroom.

To donate visit www.thefed.org.uk/deborah-and-howard/ or call 0161 772 4800.