A Menston resident who has been battling a rare form of cancer for the last two years has set himself a target to raise £20,000 for charity.
Johnny Ratcliffe, a local business owner who attended Ilkley Grammar School, was diagnosed with anorectal mucosal melanoma two years ago and was told the tragic news in January that his cancer is now terminal.
Johnny (45) and his wife, Melissa (43), are walking 15 miles from St James’ Hospital in Leeds to the Down Syndrome Support Service headquarters in Bingley, raising funds for Melanoma Focus, who research and campaign for Melanoma patients and Down Syndrome Training & Support, who help Johnny's son Leo.
Following a courageous two-year fight, which has seen the father of three undergo 8 complex operations as well as two courses of gruelling immunotherapy, Johnny felt compelled to complete one last challenge to support his family 'whilst he still can'.
The walk, which will take place on Friday 21st March 2025, will be physically and mentally exhausting for Johnny and it is likely he will need to be pushed in a specially adapted wheelchair for parts of it due to the recent decline in his health. However, Johnny is determined to walk as much of the distance as he can manage on the day and says:
“I’ve been battling this incurable cancer for two years now, and I’ve tried everything, but sadly there isn’t a cure for mucosal melanoma. It's important that even if there isn't a treatment for me, there is for future generations - Melanoma Focus is campaigning for just that.”
Johnny is acutely aware of the difficulties his wife will face bringing up three young children without him, particularly since Leo has significant special needs. He hopes the funds he will raise from this event will mean the local charity will be able to continue the vital support they currently provide to the family.
For more information and to donate online, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/team/johnnys
Ilkley Pre-School faces closure without urgent financial lifeline
MP shares update on redevelopment of Airedale Hospital
Age UK shop is Ilkley appeals for donations as stocks are low
Fuggle & Golding saved by Horsforth Brewery
Joanna seeks life-extending treatment after brain tumour diagnosis
Winners revealed for Ilkley Business Awards 2026
Airedale Hospital charity hits the road for its fifth annual World Book Day adventure
Yorkshire Water, what is happening behind all those blue hoardings?
Ilkley Cemetery's Beanlands Parade gates repairs
Local MP backs campaign to protect affordable residential experiences for young people
Claire Baxter Gallery announces closure in Ilkley
Ilkley's Annual Town Meeting and Citizen Awards 2026
Outside the Box and Ilkley Live make music together
New drone will be used 'wherever it is needed' to stop fly tipping
Calendar of events announced at Burley-in-Wharfedale Community Trust AGM
Experience the magic of opera at charity gala in Ilkley
Your Local Experiences earns thousands for local businesses in first month
Four Ilkley businesses in finals of Leeds Oliver Awards 2026
Ilkley Wharfedale Rotary involved with eradicating Polio worldwide
International Women’s Day talk to celebrate ‘Brilliant Bradford Lasses’
