A FAMILY has completed a five-hour sponsored walk to raise almost £5,000 for a cancer charity.

Around 30 people, including family members and friends, completed the 14-mile mile walk from the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle to Sacriston Cricket Club on Saturday to raise money for the North of England Children’s Cancer Research.

It w organised by 32-year-old Amy Sharp, from Sacriston, whose family have been fundraising for the charity since 2010 when her nephew Louis was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma aged just two.

Over the past five years the family have raised more than £10,000 for the fund.

Keith Allen, Louis’ grandfather, said: “After Louis was diagnosed with cancer, myself and his mother, Laura, were at his bedside every day for 18 months.

“The staff at the RVI were absolutely amazing and all we want to do is praise and thank them for helping us through that time and giving Louis the best care possible.”

Family and friends gathered at the Newcastle’s RVI and finished their walk five hours later in Sacriston, County Durham.

“A walk seemed like the perfect activity as there is no pressure in winning or finishing at a certain time, you don’t need to be fit, and you just need to have fun. It was also Amy’s birthday on the day, which made the walk even more special.

“We live by Louis’ positivity and focus on the future, rather than the past; I still believe we can do a lot more in the fight against childhood cancer.”

Chris Peacock, Chairman for the NECCR said: “We want to thank Louis’ family for all the fundraising they’ve done for us over the years, we truly appreciate all of the effort they go to, to help support us. All money raised goes towards helping children like Louis fight off cancer by funding vital research.“