A DEDICATED family firm in York, which immersed itself in community spirit to raise more than £4,000, has handed over the money to Cancer Research UK.

Sales rep Andrew Elcock, 27, and his aunt, accounts manager Liz Atkinson, 39, both work at Elcock Ltd, a power tool and accessories company based just off Fulford Road, York.

The pair decided to get into training and take part in the Great North Run after Colin Elcock, Liz's brother and Andrew's uncle, was diagnosed with cancer.

They used their company contacts to raise £4,410 in sponsorship, and both crossed the finish line of the half marathon in October in under three hours.

Andrew, who is now three-and-a-half stone lighter than when he began his training, said: "Up until 12 miles it was okay but then it started to hurt, but it was nothing compared to what people like Colin are going through.

"When we had finished we had a feeling of immense relief and achievement, knowing that the money was going to such a good cause."

Updated: 10:05 Saturday, December 28, 2002