A RUNNER has raised more than £800 to help boost a charity which aids sick children from Chernobyl.

Cassie Boynton, 20, of Thornton- le-Street, near Thirsk, is raising money to help the Friends of Chernobyl's Children.

The Leeds University student aims to raise money for the charity by running two half marathons.

In her latest race, she completed the City of Leeds Half Marathon, raising £880.

Next is the Great North Run later this year and Miss Boynton is already training for the event.

"I'm really looking forward to the Great North Run and I'm training now and hope to get a better time.

"It's a really good charity I'm supporting and it's upsetting when you know what the children have been through."

Each year, the charity pays for children aged six to 13 to travel from Belarus to spend a month with families in the UK.

It also pays the travel costs and sends the children back home with vitamins and clothes.

Miss Boynton hopes to boost her fundraising efforts by holding a charity ball later this year.

Anyone who wants to sponsor Miss Boynton can reach her on 01845-525529 or email bus5 clb@leeds.ac.uk