DARLINGTON'S Race for Life had added poignancy for Lisa Stark.

For the legal receptionist, who organised an 11-strong team from solicitors Blackett Hart and Pratt, in Darlington, lost her cousin, Damian Feeley, to cancer two days before Sunday's race, aged 32.

Ms Stark, from Newton Aycliffe, said: "It meant so much to me to be taking part after what had happened, it was such a special day.

"My mum had breast cancer two years ago and is now in remission, and most of the girls in the team had lost a close relative to the disease.

"In fact, all but two of our runners had not been directly affected by cancer, which shows how prevalent it is."

The team raised £800 for Cancer Research UK after completing the 5km course through Darlington's South Park.

It was the first time the team had taken part and they have already pledged to run the race again next year.

Ms Stark said: "It was a fantastic experience. The atmosphere was superb and it was so humbling to have people with terminal cancer running in front of you. It was fantastic to be involved."

Led by Lisa, the BHP team comprised Sue Alderson, Julie Hesmondhalgh, Alison Baines, Karolyn Elstob, Marilyn Adams, Shona Munro, Victoria Cheney, Joanne Earl, Fay Carney and Lindsey Brand.