A charity fundraiser from Bradford has run three 10k events this summer in aid of the Annette Fox Leukaemia Research Fund.

Shirley Taylor, 48, of Horton Bank Top took up the challenge of running in Hull, Leeds and York in July and early August after being inspired by her friend, Josie Buckley, also 48, who has successfully battled acute myeloid leukaemia after receiving chemotherapy at the Bradford Royal Infirmary ’s ward seven where the charity is based.

Shirley, who is a catering assistant at the hospital, said: “Josie is doing well now and is in remission. She is over the moon at how well the fundraising has gone for my 10ks and delighted that we are now organising even more events to raise money for this wonderful charity.

“I’m just pleased to be helping the charity as its work in supporting patients and their relatives during their treatment, and the research it does into leukaemia and other blood-related disorders is both vital and amazing.

“All the pain of the runs has been worthwhile if we can increase our fundraising total even more.”

Since July last year, Shirley and her friends have raised more than £17,000 by running a variety of events from karaoke and Irish nights to cake stalls and, most recently, a fun day which saw a guest appearance from Real Radio’s breakfast show presenter Dixie, who brought along his Olympic torch for everyone to see.

As well as organising a 70s fundraising night on September 8, Shirley and her friends are currently planning their 2013 charity calendar given their 2012 Olympic-themed edition raised more than £1,500 for the charity.

Annette Fox Leukaemia Research Fund chairman, Jonathan Bentley, said: “As a trustee of the fund for 17 years and chairman for the last two years, I would like to express our great thanks and appreciation to Shirley and her wonderful group of friends who are so dedicated and so driven to raising money for our charity.”

If you would like to help Shirley increase her fundraising efforts contact the charity’s administrator, Michelle Adam, on (01274) 364168. Alternatively you can e-mail: michelle.adam@bthft.nhs.uk