THE friends and family of an 18-year-old battling a rare cancer will come together from across Craven to participate in The Great North Run on Sunday, September 8.

Ciara Duffy, who has salivary gland cancer, was diagnosed just three days before her 18th birthday, and has since undergone surgery to remove the tumour.

The former Thornton-in-Craven Community Primary pupil has managed to complete her A-Levels nevertheless, and will now embark on a journey to become a nurse.

Ciara hopes to give something back to those who have been in a similar situation to herself.

Nurses and staff at Teenage Cancer Trust have supported her over the last 12 months, and Ciara's friends and family will be raising money for the Trust with their run.

They have already held a series of successful fundraising activities, including bake sales at Ermysted’s Grammar School and Thornton-in-Craven Community Primary School.

A fundraising day, open to the public, will be hosted on Friday, August 30 by runner Louise Southern at her workplace in Earby, True Potential Wealth Management.

A raffle featuring luxury prizes donated by businesses from the area will also contribute funds.

The Great North Run marks the climax of the fundraising efforts, but it will also be Ciara's 19th birthday.

Ciara, along with her family, will be at the event to cheer on participating friends and family, including dad Tony and teaching staff from Thornton-in-Craven CP.

Donations can be made at https://ajbellgreatnorthrun2024.enthuse.com/pf/lisa-pickles