A FARMER’S four children have pooled together to take on a six-month challenge to support their dad after he was diagnosed with cancer.

In February, Radcliffe-based beef farmer Ian Fairclough was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Just two months later, his children, Jennie Fairclough, Jim Fairclough, Justine Robinson and John Fairclough, embarked on a mission to take on one challenge every month for six months to help raise money and awareness for Macmillan Cancer Support.

From trail runs to skydives, the siblings have pushed their bodies to the limits in order to help their dad.

The challenges began in April with the Rivington Trail Race — a 10-mile fell run.

Then, in May, the family pulled on their running shoes for the Manchester 10k.

If training for these punishing running events was not enough, three of the siblings then braved the heights last month with a 15,000 foot tandem jump and skydive.

Jennie Fairclough, from Radcliffe, said: “None of us are particularly sporty, which makes each of the activities all the more challenging as we’ve had to train for each event.

"The campaign has give us a much-needed focus and distraction, and allowed us to feel that we are helping with dad's treatment in a different way."

Mr Fairclough’s treatment is due to begin in the autumn, and will hopefully be completed before the end of the year.

The Just-Giving page has already topped £3,900 for Macmillan.

Mum Sue Fairclough, who lives on Pilkington Fold Farm, said: “Ian is a very hard-working, loyal family man.

“The fundraising is keeping us all going. We are very proud of them. They are raising awareness and raising a substantial amount of money.”

Next month, the siblings will take to their saddles for a Manchester to Blackpool cycle ride.

While August will see them undertake the gruelling Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge — a 24-mile route over Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough, in under 12 hours.

To round off their fundraising efforts, they will test their mental and physical strength in the North West Tough Mudder obstacle race in September.

Other fundraising includes a Wolfpack Charity Bootcamp at Tottington High School last Tuesday night.

Organiser Clare Nolan led more than 75 people in a workout comprising lunges, planks, hill sprints and hurdles, helping to raise £520 for Macmillan.

Jennie said: "Our family have been overwhelmed by people's warmth and well wishes on hearing about dad's news and this kindness has been an enormous strength to dad.

"The campaign is a small gesture to thank Macmillan for the tremendous work they do."

To donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jennie-fairclough4.