A MORRIS Dancing local from Bude is putting herself through her paces to run the TCS London Marathon this April to raise vital funds for children and young people with cancer.  

Fionagh Harding will be taking on the 26.2 mile iconic course in London on Sunday, April 27 to raise money for Young Lives vs Cancer, the UK’s leading cancer charity for children and young people.

Fionagh 62, said: “Young Lives vs Cancer was there to support everyone in our family through the treatment of our son, Will, after a diagnosis of life threatening cancer, Choriocarcinoma.

“He spent three months in the Bristol Haematology and Oncology. Amongst many other things, Young Lives vs Cancer provided us a room in the CLIC House enabling us all to be there as a family to support Will through his treatment.

“As a parent, having a seriously ill child is devastating; Young Lives vs Cancer were there for Will every step of the way and it's impossible to explain just what a difference it made to all of us. That's why I applied to run the marathon for this amazing charity; so they can continue to help every other child and their family who faces this hideous disease.

“I’m running the marathon to raise funds so every family who needs it will benefit from that support.”

Every day, 12 more children and young people in the UK hear the devastating news that they have cancer.

A spokesperson from the charity detailed some of the important work it does for young people going through cancer treatment.

They explained: “From the moment of diagnosis, Young Lives vs Cancer Specialist Social Workers provide psychosocial support to children and young people with cancer and their families throughout treatment. The charity also aims to provide accommodation close to hospitals, where families can stay together during treatment for free. “

Katherine Sawyer, fundraising engagement manager for Devon and Cornwall at Young Lives vs Cancer, said: “We cannot thank Fionagh enough for her amazing efforts, taking on the challenge of a lifetime for Young Lives vs Cancer. For every blister Fionagh has encountered and all the running and training, we are in awe of her dedication and determination.

“From the moment of diagnosis, our specialist social workers provide day-to-day support for each child, young person and family, from guidance to financial support. Our charity relies on donations to fund our vital work, and so we’d love to see the community get behind a final push for Fionagh’s fundraising. We cannot wait to cheer on Fionagh and Team Young Lives all the way to the finish line!” 

So far, Fionagh has raised more than £3,000, though she is hoping that she can reach her £4,000 target ahead of the big day. Donations can be made to Fionagh’s cause via: 2025tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/fionagh-harding