A MOTHER is celebrating after completing the Cancer Research UK Manchester Winter Run in memory of her dad.

Mum-of-one, Lindsey Lyons, of Ramsbottom, ran in the 10k event, which features included falling snow and hugs from friendly ‘polar bears’ on the finish line, on Saturday, February 28.

Lindsey, aged 40, was keen to take part after losing her dad to cancer and managed to complete the course in 1 hour 8 minutes 57 seconds – her best time yet – while raising more than £800 for the charity.

Bury Times: Lindsey Lyons (57833577)

Lindsey, who works as a dispatch clerk in Chadderton, Oldham, said: “The course was good and it was a lot better than I expected so it was a lot of fun and with everyone encouraging me was great.

“I decided to run for my dad who passed away nine years ago and every little helps for cancer research.

Bury Times: Lindsey Lyons with dad Peter Gurnhill (57833580)

“I’m not sporty at all or athletic so if I can do it anyone can.

“My dad would hopefully be very proud and I’m sure would have encouraged me the whole way around.”

Lindsay was supported by her husband Jonathan, their daughter Clarissa, aged nine, and her mum Beryl Gurnhill alongside a number of close family friends.

She added: “The atmosphere was really good especially with the samba band. Overall the whole atmosphere was amazing.

“It was my best ever time.”

Peter Gurnhill became ill aged 58 when he started to suffer with breathlessness. He always worked physical jobs and kept fairly fit.

Following a visit to the GP, he was sent to hospital where fluid was drained from his lungs. A consultant at Trafford General Hospital immediately suspected the problem and Peter was diagnosed with mesothelioma.

He had worked as a young apprentice boiler engineer and the consultant believed Peter must have been exposed to asbestos during the 1960s.

Peter was sent to Leicester for specialist surgery. But the treatment was unsuccessful and he died less than a year after the diagnosis aged 59.