AN inaugural Cotherstone 5km charity race has been hailed a success.
The event was organised by residents Peter Kirkman and Robert Johnson and raised about £7,000 to be divided between Pancreatic Cancer UK (PCUK) and the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS).
Mr Kirkman’s wife Pam died of the disease in 2016, just ten months after being diagnosed, while Mr Johnson was helped by air ambulance medics after a motorbike crash in Romaldkirk last year.
Almost 130 adults took part in the main race while 18 children enjoyed the fun run.
Mr Kirkman said about £5,000 was raised on the day, with the total reaching about £7,000 when all the pledges are brought in.
He added: “It is absolutely amazing. It is very moving, I must say.
“Everyone who did it said we must do it again and include a 10km next year.”
Mr Johnson said: “This is unbelievable. The buzz in the carpark field is just great.”
The day was supported by Barnard Castle Band, who will also be performing at Scar Top on Sunday, August 7, again in support of PCUK.
Sisters Claire Plimmer, Susan Hunter and Victoria Emerson took part in the race in honour of their mum who recently underwent surgery for pancreatic cancer.
A unique feature of the race was that participants got to see areas that are not normally open toi the public. The organisers thanked the Dalton, Hird and Lamb families for allowing their land to be used for the event.
