In Jane's footsteps

IT takes something special to get nearly 7,000 runners, as well as thousands more spectators, out of bed early on a humid Sunday morning. There are, however, few such large scale events that mean as much as Jane Tomlinson's 10 kilometre race and that's why so many people took part.

By The Newsroom

Published 5th Jul 2010, 14:45 BST

Updated 5th Jul 2010, 14:45 BST

Whether they were racing, running, walking or being pushed in a wheelchair, they were following the extraordinary example set by Mrs Tomlinson, who raised 1.85m through a series of challenges as she fought a long battle with cancer.

So too was Mike Tomlinson, the campaigner's widower. In dedicating himself to carry on raising vital money for charities, Mr Tomlinson, with his three children, has honoured the bravery of his late wife in fine style.

Mrs Tomlinson's courage meant people across Yorkshire took her to their hearts. Since she died they have maintained their generosity, despite the tough economic times.

Yesterday's race, supported by the Yorkshire Post, was a stunning success. The sight of Mrs Tomlinson's son, Steven, waving the White Rose flag to start the run was, however, a reminder that, every day, mothers and fathers and sons and daughters are being lost to cancer.

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