Festive fundraisers hit streets to help heart disease charity

Festive shoppers stopped to watch as those taking part in the city’s annual Santa Jog pounded past on their way to what organisers hoped would be a target of £10,000.

One of those taking part was 42-year-old Claire Taylor, who underwent a heart bypass operation just a year ago.

Mrs Taylor, from Woodseats, Sheffield, took part alongside her new husband Michael, 41, who she married in April.

She said: “When I was diagnosed with the disease I was shocked and devastated.

“Something like this affects your family and I think it’s hard for them because they don’t have any control over what’s happening.

“Having had this experience has provided me with the opportunity to volunteer and support this important and worthy cause.

“I am now living my life and want to help those who are affected by this disease.”

Mrs Taylor is also a volunteer for the Sheffield Open Heart Club, a charity affiliated to the British Heart Foundation which supports and advises cardiac patients in the Chesterman wards of Sheffield’s Northern General Hospital.