MORE than £100,000 was raised in the Forest alone at this year's Relay For Life – making it only one of five events in the UK to raise over the £100,000 mark.

Jamie Cooke, of Relay For Life Forest of Dean, said: "You really should be proud of yourselves."

The money was raised back in August to celebrate the charity's 10th anniversary, which is part of Cancer Research UK, and goes towards funding life-saving research.

"Considering the amount of events held throughout the UK and taking into account other relays and of course the famous Race for Life, this really is an incredible achievement and all of those involved from team captains, team members and individual members of the public in this area should be immensely proud. Every penny donated has helped to achieve this incredible total for an incredible cause," Jamie said.

The top team for fundraising this year was the 'Winged Wonders' who managed to raise over a staggering £11,000, closely followed by the 'Flowers of Hope' with £7,000. The friendly team rivalry has already started for next year as one team has already raised £3,000 for 2015's pot.

The event also celebrated 10 years for committee member, Lauren Brown being cancer-free. The former team member has been recognised for her work, commitment and personal motivation by becoming a Global Hero of Hope, awarded by the American Cancer Society.

With over 300 people taking part and 56 survivors, the actual amount raised by the relayers and the committee was £101,000 – with marathon fundraising and additional contributions generating over £107,000.

Jamie added: "This amount is simply unbelievable, times are hard for everyone and a little place like the Forest of Dean showing the world that with determination, dedication and a generous population these amounts are possible."

Due to unforeseeable circumstances, this weekend's 'Bark For Life' event at Speech House has been postponed and a new date will be confirmed in due course. The event allows dog owners and dog lovers to enjoy a walk through the Forest with their four-legged friend.