Weston-super-Mare's Grand Pier will glow with a purple light on Thursday, November 16, to mark World Pancreatic Cancer Day as part of the annual Purple Lights for pancreatic cancer campaign.

The Grand Pier's illuminating gesture is in support of Jason P Belcher, after his mother Marjorie Belcher sadly passed away from the disease in February 2021, three months after being diagnosed.

The local umpire and his friend Jason Smith will take part in a cycling challenge around the North Somerset Youth Cricket League Clubs, concluding with 24 laps around The Grand Pier to raise funds and awareness for the charity.

This will be the second time the duo will do the cycle ride after the pair, alongside Belcher's brother Andre and Dan Kerr, raised over £3,000 in November 2021.

"November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and I’m fundraising to help drive research breakthroughs that could save lives," Belcher said.

"Pancreatic cancer has been left behind. Survival rates have improved enormously for most cancers. Sadly, for pancreatic cancer, this is not the case. Currently, more than half of people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer die within three months, just like my Mum. This is unacceptable.

"Cycling was my release when I was caring for Mum, with the support of my family. Therefore, on November 16, (World Pancreatic Awareness Day), I am undertaking a cycling challenge with Jason Smith, a school friend.

"Mum liked her cricket so during the day we will be cycling around North Somerset Youth Cricket League 2023 playing clubs (around 100 miles) followed by 24 laps of the Grand Pier in our hometown of Weston-super-Mare, who are lighting up purple as part of the #purplelights campaign."

Throughout Pancreatic Cancer Awareness month, landmarks and homes across the UK and globe will light up purple to put a spotlight on pancreatic cancer.

Organised largely by individuals affected by pancreatic cancer, the campaign is not only a means to raise vital awareness but a way to remember loved ones who have sadly died and acknowledge those living with and beyond the disease.

Katie Robertson, PR & Marketing Manager at The Grand Pier, added: "I hope that by lighting The Grand Pier in purple, we will help shed light on a disease that many people still know so very little about."

To sponsor their 2023 challenge go to https://fundraise.pancreaticcancer.org.uk/fundraisers/jasonpbelcher/c24.