Steve Harmison lauches Greggs Children’s Cancer Run

Feb 4 2010 by Laura Caroe, The Journal

“I had cancer as a four year old and I know what it is like but I was very lucky as then only 30% survived and now it is up to 95% depending on which kind of cancer.

“A lot of people don’t realise that children can get cancer and it has massive devastating affects on the family who have to learn to cope with it.

“Money raised from the race will go towards research into cures and medicines that have limited long-term affects. This kind of research is absolutely critical.

“The run has meant we have been able to fund research for the last 28 years and attract world-class researchers to Newcastle where they can work together. We would never have had this level of research without the run and it helps children around the world.”

Online applications were opened on Monday and organisers are delighted that 1,100 people signed up in two and a half days.

Tony Gilroy, event organiser, said he was urging people taking part to apply online as each year money is lost through paper sponsorship forms. He said: “We need more participants to support the NECCR and continue to save as many children as possible.”

This year’s five-mile run is on Sunday, May 9, at Newcastle Racecourse and is being sponsored by Gregg’s bakery. To make an online application, visit www.childrenscancerrun.co.uk