THERFIELD Heath was awash in pink as more than 500 entrants took part in the Pink Ribbon Run Walk on Sunday. Nigel Willimer, of Royston-based sponsors chartered accountants WKH, started the event. Despite soaring temperatures, everyone completed the thre

THERFIELD Heath was awash in pink as more than 500 entrants took part in the Pink Ribbon Run Walk on Sunday.

Nigel Willimer, of Royston-based sponsors chartered accountants WKH, started the event.

Despite soaring temperatures, everyone completed the three-mile course within one hour in support of Cancer Research UK.

Children through to adults were in the pink, including Royston's mayor, Cllr Lynn Berry.

So far about £4,000 has been raised, but Maurice Hill, one of the organisers, said he would be disappointed if the event did not raise at least £10,000.

He said: "The turnout was a lot more than we anticipated. The sponsors were great and everyone has said how much they have enjoyed themselves."

Before the race began everyone took part in a one-minute silence in memory of those who are suffering from cancer and for those who have lost their lives to cancer.

James Sommers, of Cancer Research UK, said: "We are here today to raise funds for preventative treatments and cures for this terrible disease and celebrate people who have already fought against it and for those who are currently fighting their battle."

Michaela Huffer, one of the organisers, endured a 14-hour operation last September to remove a cancerous tumour from her spine. She was told she would never walk again but she proved everyone wrong and completed half of the walk with her mum, Dawn Goodings, 60, and her children, Frank and Madeline.

Michaela, who has taken part in the London Marathon, said: "It's fantastic that I have been able to take part. I wanted to do it for the women of Royston.

"I was delighted so many people took part."

Michelle Bonfield, of Wash Me! Iron Me!, was a sponsor for the event and has already raised £1,375.

She said: "I took part because I'm friends with Michaela Huffer and I have been going through breast cancer treatment myself for the past year, so I wanted to give something back.

"I really enjoyed the day and hopefully next year I will get more involved."

Commenting after the walk, Angela Chappell, of Royston, said: "I didn't mind putting up with the heat because I'm here supporting a good cause. As long as we can help all those people that suffer from cancer then it's all worth while."

Nicky Maddocks, of Bassingbourn Barracks, said: "I'm here today to support the charity because my nan has got cancer and my father-in-law died of the disease.

"So far I have raised £130."

Royston's MP Oliver Heald said: "It was a magnificent event, that was strongly supported by the people of Royston and the surrounding areas.

"It was wonderful to see so many people taking part and raising so much money for such an excellent cause.

"I would like to congratulate all those who were involved in the day and all those who took part."

For more information about the event visit www.pinkribbonrunwalk.co.uk

Words: JOANNE JARVIS

Pictures: DANIEL WILSON