A CINDERFORD mum-of-two is carrying on the legacy of her father who raised thousands of pounds for cancer research before losing his own battle.

Lynn Walsh, a 42-year-old financial advisor, lost her dad Derrick Daley to bowel cancer aged just 65. He had been given only 18 months to live when he was diagnosed aged just 57. 

During his eight-year battle, he became an avid fundraiser and the chairman of a group which organises the annual "Race 4 Men" 5k event in Gloucester.

Lynn said Derrick faced countless visits to hospital for a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment.

"Tough as it was, he persevered and kept the treatment going. He was in more pain than he ever admitted, but with the love and support of his wife, Sandra, and the rest of his family, he found a reason to keep fighting before he developed secondary lung cancer and died a year ago".      Now Lynn and her nine-year old daughter, Shannon, will carry on his legacy by raising more money for research by taking part in the Race for Life at Gloucester Park on Sunday, July 22.

Cancer Research UK's Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, is an inspiring women-only series of 5k and 10k events, which raises millions of pounds every year to help beat cancer sooner.

Lynn said: "My dad was an incredible fighter and during the years he survived he wanted to help others. He ran the Race 4 Men many times, including when he was having chemotherapy treatment.

"I have encouraged my daughter to join me in the Race for Life as it is really important the next generation is aware how important it is to help in the fight against cancer.

"I like to think that perhaps in Shannon's lifetime a cure will be found for this terrible disease. I will do everything I can to help, just as my Dad had done."

For more details on entering visit http://www.raceforlife.org">www.raceforlife.org.