Bridget Phillipson, MP for Houghton and Sunderland South, has completed Cancer Research UK’s ‘Pretty Muddy – 5k Race for Life’ at Herrington Country Park. Bridget was was running with school friend Laura and they reached their target of raising £1000 for Cancer Research UK, a charity which she has long supported as a result of friends and family who have suffered with cancer. According to Cancer Research UK, every week 260 people from across the north east are told they have cancer. The charity’s work contributes towards preventing, diagnosing and treating all forms of cancer.

Speaking after the run, Bridget Phillipson MP said:

“Cancer Research UK offers hope to millions of cancer sufferers through its prevention and treatment work that one day we can live in a world without cancer.

“We all know people who have been affected by cancer and it’s important the work of Cancer Research UK continues. That’s why I ran today’s 5k Pretty Muddy race to raise money and play a small part in making a difference. It was great to see so many local women taking part and supporting this cause.”

Claire Wase, Cancer Research UK’s North East Events Manager, said:

“We really appreciate Bridget’s support and for taking part in Race for Life in Sunderland this year. Race for Life events are not competitive. They are not about being fit or fast. Instead, they are an amazing way to celebrate life but also remember those who have been lost to the disease.

“Every day, more than 40 people are diagnosed with cancer in the North East. Cancer Research UK receives no Government funding for its ground-breaking research but, with help from the people of the North East, the charity intends to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

“More people in the North East are surviving cancer than ever before. But while we’re heading in the right direction, too many lives are still being lost to the disease. Sadly, most of us know someone whose life has been touched by cancer and this really brings home how much more work there is to do. There are over 200 cancers and we won’t give up until we find cures for them all. It’s fighting talk, and we mean every word we say. Cancer, Sunderland is coming to get you.”