Mexborough hero Dennis backs charity walk

Twice-world champion darts player Dennis "The Menace" Priestley joined world heptathlon champion Jessica Ennis to put his weight behind a charity close to both of their hearts.

Dennis, from Mexborough, and World Champion athlete Jess joined Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity, of which they are patrons, to start the "Walk as One" event.

Starting from Don Valley Stadium in Sheffield, walkers created a carnival atmosphere as they paraded in and around the surrounding area.

More than 700 people, from young children to people in their 80s and 90s, donned their walking shoes to take part.

Dennis, who was treated at the hospital last year after being diagnosed with prostate cancer, said: "After going through my diagnosis and treatment, it made me realise how much Weston Park relies on fund-raising to support new research into the disease.

"We are very lucky to have the hospital here in our region because it is one of the leading centres for cancer treatment in the whole of the UK.

"Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity is now obviously very close to my heart and I am honoured to have the opportunity to be able support the charity and help make a difference.

"I was privileged to become a patron and I now lend my support in any way that I can."

"Walk as One" saw cancer survivors, people who have lost loved ones or had experience of cancer in their lives, supporters of the charity and the general public join together to 'Walk as One' in the fight against the disease and raise as much money as possible for one of the region's leading cancer charities.

Jess said: "Sheffield is a fantastic city and we are incredibly lucky to have such a world-class hospital on our doorstep."

Pictured: Dennis Priestley (right) alongside (left to right) cancer survivor Peter Wilkinson, Jess Ennis and the Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Cllr Graham Oxley.