Ellie, 12, is first to sign up for hospital's cancer charity run

Ellie Thornley is taking part in the event at Graves Park, Sheffield, to thank the hospital for the care it gave to her mother and grandmother.

Ellie's mum Tracey Thornley was just 33 years old when she succumbed to breast cancer in 2000, and then three years later her grandmother Betty Thornley died aged 68 from lung cancer.

The Thornley family, from Woodseats, say they have never forgotten the care their loved ones received at the specialist cancer hospital.

Ellie's aunt Janet Thornley said: "We appreciate all the care they received and the staff were very supportive to us as a family.

"Ellie was just three when she lost her mum, and now she wants to support Weston Park Hospital and say thank you, as it is such a special place. We know that Tracey and Betty would both be very proud of her supporting such a worthwhile cause."

Ellie will receive plenty of encouragement at the event on July 11 from members of her family, including her aunt Mrs Thornley, uncle Gary Smith, father Anthony Thornley and grandfather Dennis Thornley, who will be there to cheer her on.

Ellie, who is a pupil at Meadowhead School, said: "I want to take part for mum and nan, to make them proud of me and to help other people with cancer to get better.

"I am really looking forward to the day, it will be fun."

Mrs Thornley added: "We'll all be there to spur Ellie on. She is hoping to raise over 100 and is busy encouraging friends and family to sponsor her ahead of the big day."

Fundraiser Lyndsey Raynor at Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity, who is also the Run in the Park organiser, said: "We are delighted that Ellie has chosen to support our Run in the Park 3k fun run.

"It's a fabulous event for runners of all abilities and there's still time to sign up, so why not come and join us and support a great local cause."The event, which features a 10k race along with a 3k family fun, takes place on Sunday, July 11. All entries must be received by Tuesday, July 6. For details call 0114 2265370.