A MAN who has twice battled against leukaemia is planning to join a gruelling sailing race around the UK as he awaits the all-clear from doctors.

Daniel Monk, 23, plans to take part in the race around Britain and Ireland in June, just two months before his final health check to confirm he has beaten the disease. He is currently in remission.

Two years ago, Daniel, of Long Riding, Basildon, was recovering from a second bout of leukaemia when he took part in a ten-month round-the-world voyage.

However, ill health meant he had to pull out during the trip, but Daniel was determined to return to sailing with the race in June.

He said: “I have really started to get fit again and I really want to celebrate this summer by coming out of remission and taking part in the race.”

Daniel, who is an ambassador for the Ellen MacArthur Trust, and sailing partner Mark Freedy, 38, from Barking, need to raise £30,000 in sponsorship to take part. Any extra raised will go to charity.

The pair are now appealing to companies to get in touch.

Anyone interested in sponsoring the team can call Daniel on 07837 962266 or send an e-mail to danmonkwivstyle@btinternet.com