A Southgate dentist is gearing up to take on a 100km bike ride to raise money for bowel cancer.

Dr Ketan Shah, of Crown Lane, Southgate, will be taking part in the London Nightrider event around the streets of the capital next month.

The 37-year-old, who practises at Brightside Dental in Bounds Green, has chosen Bowel & Cancer Research because members of his family have suffered from the disease.

He said: “I did the Nightrider event last year for the first time. I didn’t really cycle much before then – just a few miles each way to work.

“This year I decided to do it again for a charity. We support quite a few charities financially at work, but this required more personal involvement. It also helps keep me fit and provides a challenge.”

Mr Shah also suffers from ulcerative colitis, an incurable condition, and explained his condition can increase the risk of bowel cancer.

He said: “I’m fortunate that I’m generally able to manage it well and it doesn’t impact on my day-to-day activities.  But for many people, the symptoms can be much more severe.  The condition also increases the risk of bowel cancer.”

The ride will take place on June 8, 2014, starting and finishing at Alexandra Palace in Haringey.