Manchester Evening News
·27 Aug 2026
Chorlton cyclist urges men to talk about their health after cancer diagnosis
Pete Smart, a 67-year-old cyclist and footballer from Chorlton, describes being diagnosed with bladder cancer after noticing more frequent urination and blood in his urine. Following surgery at Wythenshawe Hospital to remove his bladder and prostate, he chose a urostomy and has returned to cycling, football and long-distance mountain tours. Smart urges men not to ignore changes in urinary health or feel embarrassed about consulting their GP. Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance’s Jeremy Oates stresses that blood in the urine and other symptoms should be checked promptly because early diagnosis can lead to less extensive treatment.