THE thrill of the races is in store for family man Eric Spencer, who has endeavoured to make each day count since being diagnosed with terminal cancer.

The father-of-four from Park North discovered he had incurable lung cancer last June. In November he completed a six-week course of radiotherapy in Oxford.

Determined to indulge his love of betting, his daughter Pauline Cadden nominated him for a day at the races as part of the Christmas Wish appeal.

The pair will head to Newbury Racecourse along with Pauline’s daughter Sophie and another lucky relative yet to be chosen, on February 7.

“My father was diagnosed with lung cancer in June, which is terminal,” said Pauline, of Upper Stratton. “He had an X-ray for a hip operation and that’s when they realised. We are waiting to see if the cancer has been shrunk to prolong his life. We’ll find out on January 15.

“He already suffers with a bad hip and now can’t have a hip replacement because of the cancer.

“While he had daily trips to Oxford for his treatment he just got on with it. He is very upbeat.

“He has my mum to look after as well because she has a bad back but he still gets his mobility scooter out each day to go and do the shopping.”

A day at the races seemed like the ideal surprise for her father, who enjoys a cheeky daily bet.

“He loves to have a little flutter each day at the betting shop and I knew he would love to go and watch it live somewhere.”

Eric had an inkling something fishy was going on when Pauline, 54, gave him strict orders to be dressed and ready by 10am last Thursday without further explanation.

When the Christmas Wish team knocked on his door at 10am on the dot, his suspicions were confirmed.

“I feel overwhelmed to tell you the truth,” said the 79-year-old. “Pauline told me to make sure I was up and dressed. I didn’t know what to expect. I’ve always been a gambler and I used to go to the races years ago. I’ve got to start saving.

“I don’t really know if I deserve it. I’ve been thinking positively. If you dwell on cancer that’s when it gets worse. I’ve put it at the back of my mind.”

Julian Thick, Newbury Racecourse chief executive, said: “We’re delighted to support the Advertiser’s Christmas Wish Appeal. We hope Eric has a great day out with his family and would like to wish him all the best for the future.”