Hundreds of walkers stepped out to help people with cancer in this year's Shipley Stride.

The sun shone brightly on more than 700 striders who took part in the 5.5 mile walk at Shipley Glen to boost funds for Macmillan Cancer Support yesterday.

Children walked alongside their parents and pals - and some dogs even joined in the walk across the Shipley beauty spot.

The walkers' pace varied but everyone was united by trying to raise money for the Macmillan nurses who provide vital support to people fighting cancer throughout the district.

Teacher Helen Oates, of Heaton, joined her friend Ged Leach to walk in memory of his late wife and her friend Brenda Leach.

Mrs Leach, who had taught at Clayton Primary School, had signed up for the walk but lost her battle against cancer at the age of 50, on April 21.

"Brenda was a strong person," said Mr Leach, 48, of Bingley. "She suffered for ten years with cervical cancer. Macmillan helped her and the support they provided was very good."

Elaine Sheard, of Allerton, dressed up as Hope' and decorated herself in yellow and green ribbons in support of the family of missing British child Madeleine McCann.

The 59-year-old healthcare assistant, who lost her mum, granddad, aunts and an uncle to cancer, said: "A neighbour of mine recently died of cancer after a long battle. This is for all the families who have either lost someone or who are missing someone at the moment."

Eight-year-old Sasha Lowe was among many children taking part in the fundraiser. Her mum Heather, 32, of Wrose, said: "A friend of ours, Iris, had her leg amputated because of cancer. She said the Macmillan nurses were brilliant."

Sasha added: "I want to raise money for people with cancer and I like a good walk."

Other walkers included Shipley MP Philip Davies and a group of staff and teachers from Lidget Green Primary School.

Rais Hasan, who is battling a brain tumour, was delighted to complete the walk that ill health had prevented him from doing last year. He was joined by his wife Julie, 15-year-old son Faheem and 12-year-old nephew Moeed Hasan. The boys raised £200 in sponsorship in just a few days.

"It was a major success," said Mr Hasan, 51, of Shipley. "We were so pleased we all completed the course."

The Shipley Stride, backed by the Telegraph & Argus, started life five years ago and inspired a nationwide fundraiser this year - Macmillan's Walk Wonders which will see thousands of people stepping out on similar walks across the country to raise £1 million for the charity.

Macmillan Cancer Support fundraising manager Emma Lavelle-Wood thanked everyone who took part. "We are absolutely delighted with the support from the people of Bradford," she said.

"It's a real family event and there are so many stories of why people want to take part."

e-mail: fiona.evans@bradford.newsquest.co.uk

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