Actress replaces Joe Swash in Leeds 10K

Actress Gemma Atkinson will join the Jane Tomlinson Leeds 10K after former EastEnders actor Joe Swash pulled out of the fundraiser.

The star of the stage hit Calendar Girls – who made her name as Lisa Hunter in Channel 4's Hollyoaks – will run for the children's medical research charity Sparks in place of her fellow Sparks ambassador.

A spokesman for Swash said: "It is with great regret that Joe has had to pull out of the Leeds 10K for Sparks. Joe has been extremely dedicated to the cause and enjoyed his training. However, work commitments to a TV show have made it impossible for Joe to make the date and as such, his friend and fellow Sparks ambassador Gemma has kindly stepped into his shoes to run the race for Sparks.

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"Joe is thrilled Gemma can do this for him but very saddened he won't be there to see everyone and run on the day."

Sparks funds pioneering research across the spectrum of paediatric medicine. Founded by leading sportsmen and women, Jane Tomlinson was a vice-president and is the charity's record individual fundraiser.

Atkinson, 25, said: "I'm really excited to be running the Leeds 10K on behalf of the charity Sparks. They do such great work with children. Joe is really sad not to be here himself, but I'm happy I've been able to help Joe and the charity out by stepping in and running for such a great cause."

Sparks is at the forefront of research into neuroblastoma, one of the biggest cancer killers of babies and children under the age of five.It founded a standalone 5m neuroblastoma appeal called Georges Appeal, named after George Yeomans who died of neuroblastoma in 2008.

The 2010 Leeds 10K takes place next Sunday. Run, walk, wheel or jog – the event is open to people of all abilities. Enter on line at www.runforall.com.

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