Residents of Oldham and the surrounding Saddleworth area have been taking on fundraising challenges. These include a Diggle woman cycling the length of Britain indoors and a local author taking on a challenging hike.

Diane Bibby, from Diggle, has completed a fundraising challenge by cycling the equivalent of the John O'Groats to Land's End route without leaving her home. The 1,200-mile indoor cycling challenge has raised over £2,200 and counting for Maggie's Oldham cancer centre, which is based at the Royal Oldham Hospital. The centre provides emotional and practical support to cancer patients and their families across Oldham, and Diane's fundraising will help support those services.

The cycling world has also been paying tribute to John Arnold, a long-distance cyclist who passed away at the age of 84 after a long illness. Arnold was regarded as one of the greatest post-war cyclists, with a fame that matched modern stars such as Sir Bradley Wiggins, Sir Chris Hoy, and Mark Cavendish. His record-breaking rides and contributions to the sport inspired generations of cyclists, including many in the Oldham area. Local cycling clubs have been recalling his impact on the sport and the community, remembering his endurance and achievements.

Trevor Baxter, a writer who has chronicled the fundraising achievements of the Saddleworth community, decided it was time to take part himself. With his wife Sue undergoing ongoing and increasingly debilitating cancer treatment, Baxter signed up for Macmillan's Mighty Hike in the Yorkshire Dales. The event is a long-distance hike through challenging terrain, raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, which offers care and support to people living with cancer. Baxter's personal connection to the cause prompted his fundraising, and he hopes to encourage others in the community to support the charity.

These stories show the different ways people in Oldham and Saddleworth are supporting causes. Whether through individual challenges or community events, local residents are raising money. The funds raised for Maggie's Oldham and Macmillan will go directly to supporting cancer patients and their families. If you have a community news story to share, please get in touch with Oldham.News: we love celebrating the achievements of our readers and residents.