MORE than 2,000 people participated in Wirral's Race For Life in Birkenhead Park at the weekend, raising thousands of pounds for Cancer Research UK.
The hugely popular Globe-backed fundraiser, which took place on Sunday, has so far raised £121,000. There was also a Pretty Muddy event in the park for the charity too. Women, men and children could take part in both events.
Putting them through their paces in a warm-up ahead of the event as the sun shone down was trainer Karl from JD Gym.
Sounding the klaxon to set the runners and walkers off on their way around the course was Birkenhead MP Mick Whitley. Before heading onto the stage to start the race at 11am, he told the Globe: "This is a fantastic opportunity for Cancer Research UK to showcase what they are doing. It's a fantastic event and raises such a lot of money."
Mr Whitley continued: "Fortunately, I haven't lost any family members to cancer, but there are a lot of people with this evil disease.
"As far as I'm concerned if we can do research into it, find cures or find methods of slowing it down or even stopping or eradicating it, that will be fantastic."
Race For Life Day is always an emotional one with people taking part for a number of reasons.
Among those taking part were Lee Chamberlain and dad Bill, both from Meols.
Lee was diagnosed with testicular cancer last year and following treatment is now clear. He told the Globe: "We’ve done quite a bit to raise awareness of cancer. My grandad had cancer too, so we were running in memory of him."
Also taking part were Lauren Bridon and Paula Easdown (pictured, above) from Moreton. Paula said: “We’ve taken part in Race for Life a few times. Love it, great atmosphere and helping to raise funds for an amazing cause.”
Colin Taylor and his family, who live in Wallasey and Saughall Massie, were running memory of Colin's wife Sue and others who have passed away from cancer.
Judy Pope, area event manager for Cancer Research UK told the Globe: "It was fantastic; the sun was shining, we've had a really great turnout, lots of spectators cheering them on at the finish line and raised lots of money, which was what it was all about.
"It was a pleasure to be back at Birkenhead Park."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here