AN inspirational young cancer sufferer will take part in a 3km fun run for his favourite charity Kieran Garbutt, eight, of Norton, near Stockton, is battling bone cancer, but plans to join the rest of his family in Sunday’s Redcar Family Fun Run.

The Norton Primary School pupil decided he wanted to take part after school caretaker John Adams said he was going to run the Redcar Half- Marathon, on the same day.

Mr Adams, 51, who has been a caretaker at the school for 20 years, entered the run on behalf of Kieran after he heard about his battle with the disease.

They are both planning to raise money for Kieran’s favourite charity, Charlie Bear Cancer Care.

Kieran’s mother, Diane Garbutt, said: “My nieces, Sophie and Rebecca Wake, who are 11 and 16, wanted to take part in the half-marathon but were too young, so they decided the family fun run was ideal for them.

“Then I decided I would join in, and Kieran’s sister, Holly, who is six, is going to come.”

Kieran is keen to join his family at Kirkleatham Showfield and complete as much of the 3km run as he can.

Mrs Garbutt said: “Kieran is undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy at the moment, and he was scheduled to have chemo the week of the run, but that would have stopped him taking part, so he is having the therapy early.

“He is doing very well and although he is having some problems with his legs at the moment, he will be doing as much of the run as he can.

“It is a great day out for him because it is not just the race, but also the chance to meet lots of people.”

Race organiser Paddy Corcoran said: “The family fun run is an ideal event for people of all abilities to take part in because it is only 3km and takes in a lovely route that everyone can enjoy.

“I hope Kieran and his family thoroughly enjoy their day.”

To take part in the halfmarathon or the 3km run, in the grounds of Kirkleatham Showfield, call 01642-452488 or go to teesvalleyleisure.co.uk