IF you were 69 and suffering from liver cancer and kidney failure, you'd want to take it easy, wouldn't you?

But not if you are Edgerton pensioner John Dyson.

The 69-year-old has decided to tackle a 200ft abseil down Baitings Dam, near Ripponden.

Mr Dyson, of Mountjoy Road, is taking part in the abseil on Saturday to raise money for the Calderdale and Huddersfield Macmillan Appeal, which aims to provide better services for cancer patients.

Maureen, Mr Dyson's wife of 49 years, said: "He wanted to do this because if someone with one of his illnesses sees him being positive, it may help."

Mr Dyson - who worked for the Post Office in Huddersfield for 35 years - was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 1998. In 1999, the disease spread to his liver.

He had three-quarters of his liver removed and began to recover, but he was dealt another blow when his kidneys failed.

Since then, he has been on dialysis three times a week at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary.

At the start of 2003, his liver cancer returned and he had an operation to remove a tumour.

But at Christmas the cancer came back. He is now having chemotherapy at HRI.

Mrs Dyson said: "He has been through such a lot, but he has never grumbled and is so cheerful. "Everyone at HRI says he is an inspiration. He is the bravest man I know."

So far, Mr Dyson has raised £400 for his abseil. He has had contributions from friends and customers and colleagues of his son, David, an accountant.

To sponsor Mr Dyson, send your donations to Calderdale and Huddersfield Macmillan Appeal, Room 304, Staff Residence, Huddersfield Royal Infirmary.

Make cheques payable to Macmillan Cancer Relief and write on the back that they are for sponsorship of John Dyson.