THOUSANDS of runners pulled on their trainers to help raise vital funds to continue the fight against cancer.

And nine-year-old Thomas Atherton, from Darlington, who has been diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, had the honour of getting the Race for Life event in the town’s South Park underway on Sunday.

His mother, Jocelyn, took part in the 5km run to raise funds for Cancer Research UK while Thomas is undergoing maintenance chemotherapy and his treatment is due to finish in December.

The 46-year-old mother of three, who came home in 58 minutes, said: “He said he was a little bit nervous when he had to start the race but it was a wonderful experience for him and we are so proud of him.

“Even though it started raining just before the race started there was a wonderful atmosphere and everyone seemed to really enjoy it.”

An estimated 3,000 women and children took part in the event with many having their own personal reasons for donning running shoes.

Norma Fishwick, 66, of Stanley, County Durham, was running in memory of her two sisters Margaret and Bettie, who died of cancer related illnesses.

She said: “This is something that is really close to my heart and something that I wanted to do to raise money this important charity.”

Liz Garner, 65, of Sedgefield, was also running in support of the Helen Timney Foundation Trust. She said: “My friend died of cancer five years ago aged just 64, so I’m determined to raise money for the Foundation as well as Cancer Research.”

First home in around 25 minutes was Samantha Aislabie, 22, of Darlington, who was running in support of family and friends, said: “It was good to come first but it’s all about raising money for Cancer Research.”

Cancer Research UK receives no Government funding for its research, so money raised through Race for Life is crucial to the work of doctors, nurses and scientists fighting cancer.

To sign up for other races taking place in the summer, visit raceforlife.org or call 0871-6411111.

Other events take place in Middlesbrough - Friday, June 15, 7.30pm, Ormesby Hall; and Saturday, June 16, 10.30am, Ormesby Hall; Hartlepool - Sunday, June 24, 11am, Promenade; Newcastle - Sunday, July 8, 11am, Town Moor, near Exhibition Park; Durham - Sunday, July 15, 11am, St Leonard's sports fields.