A RYEDALE teenager celebrated her 14th birthday by running the Race For Life in York and raised more than £1,200 for in honour of her mother.

Matilda Gledhill, who attends Kirkham Henry Performing Arts School in Malton, was joined by her dance teachers, friends and parents during the race.

Matilda said: “My mum was diagnosed with cancer last year and she finished her treatment in January.

“I really wanted to take part in Race for Life to try to raise as much money as I could.

“I set up a Just Giving page and the response was overwhelming, particularly from people in Lockton who had helped support us as a family during that difficult time.”

Matilda and the team from Kirkham Henry raised a total of £2,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Matilda added: “My mum had a lot of support during her illness and it is good to give something back.

“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has sponsored me and Team Kirkham.”

Race for Life is a series of fundraising events, organised by charity Cancer Research UK.

They involve running, jogging or walking a 5k, 10k or “Pretty Muddy” course and raising sponsorship for doing so.

To get involved, visit raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org/find-an-event