A SPINATHON organised by the family of a girl in remission from brain cancer has raised thousands for charity.

The 12-hour, static cycling event was organised in Northallerton by the family of Naomi Savage, 13, who has been in remission from brain cancer since 2008, after being diagnosed with it at the age of four. She underwent intensive chemotherapy and three brain operations as she fought the disease.

In the last few years Naomi has been involved with a variety of fundraising for Brain Tumour Research, including a sponsored swim she organised with friends from schools in Northallerton and Stokesley, which raised more than £1,500.

Naomi’s mother, Lucy Savage, recently helped organise a spinathon at Zone Fitness, at Standard Close in Northallerton, as part of a national fundraising drive for the research charity.

The event was also supported by staff, patrons and friends of The Terrace Café in Northallerton, who put forward a team in memory of a regular customer, Geoff Keddie, who died of a brain tumour last November. Marian, his widow, also took part in the spinathon.

Sara Livesley-Gardin, owner of Yorkshire Fireplaces, completed the most cycling hours.

The aim was to raise £2,740 – enough to find a day’s research into brain cancer – but in the end the spinathon smashed its target by raising £4,000.

Lucy said: “We’re thrilled about reaching £4,000 and very grateful to all 50 spinners and their sponsors.”