RYEDALE fundraisers joined thousands of women to run, walk and dance in the annual Race for Life.

Held at the Knavesmire in York, the event included a Pretty Muddy obstacle course on Saturday as well as 5k and 10k races on Sunday.

Among those taking part was 11-year-old Levi Pettit, the sister of Harvey Pettit from Norton, who died last year after suffering a chest infection brought on by complications following a bone marrow transplant at the age of 20.

She was joined by Harvey’s girlfriend Holly Kneeshaw, 21, who also lives in Norton.

Holly said: "We finished the race in 33 minutes and we both really enjoyed the race – we never stopped all the way round. We are very proud of this and with how fast we completed it, we were not expecting to be able to finish it this quickly

"So far about £800 has been raised between us and we did not expect to be able to raise this much. We would like to thank everyone who has sponsored us."

Angela Kirkham, from Kirkham Henry Performing Arts Centre, in Malton, said a team of about 40 teachers and pupils had taken part in the Race for Life.

"We have so far raised £1,500 in our team just giving page and with the sponsor forms we're heading towards £2,000," she said.

"The girls did entertain the crowds with their grand jetes and cartwheels as they danced their way around the course.

"Everyone had an emotional but great time and thanks goes to everyone for their support."

A team of eight women from Sinnington, with one member, 58-year-old Julie Flanagan, who had previously had her head shaved in support of all cancer sufferers, came fifth in the 5k with a time of 25 minutes 11 seconds.

Julie said: "All eight ran their hearts out for Cancer Research and so far a magnificent total of £2,400 has been raised.

"The team would all like to pass on a huge thank you to everybody who so kindly donated and supported them."

About 5,200 women took part in the Pretty Muddy raising an estimated £320,000, while 2,000 raced the 5k and another 500 the 10k, bringing in another £275,000.

Philippa Sharpe, from Cancer Research UK, which organises the Race for Life, said everyone enthusiasm for the event had made it a huge success.

"I couldn't ask for more for the event - the feed back has been amazing too," she said.