Brothers take on Great North Run after three relatives diagnosed with cancer

Wayne Singleton (37) and his brother Mark Singleton (40) will race the Great North Run for Yorkshire Cancer Research (YCR) next month.

Wayne, from Rawmarsh, hopes to complete the half-marathon in a “competitive time” with Mark, who now lives in Swindon.

The siblings decided to brave the race after their younger brother, aunt and friend were all diagnosed with cancer last year.

“Choosing to take part in the Great North Run for YCR was a natural choice for us,” said Wayne.

“Our family has had strong roots in Yorkshire, so we wanted to be able to raise money for a charity that is not only passionate about fighting cancer but also helps our region.

“By raising money for YCR,we hope we can reach a position in the future where people do not have to go through the devastating experiences that our family and others have.”

The brothers have been training hard for the event, which takes place in Newcastle on Sunday, September 9.

They hope to raise £700 for the charity, which funds vital research and community health projects. 

Wayne added: “We want to give ourselves the best possible shot at not only completing the Great North Run, but also finishing it in a competitive time.

“It will be a privilege and an honour to represent YCR. To wear the charity’s vest and run alongside my brother will truly be an overwhelming experience and one I am sure we will never forget.”

Charlie Jackett, YCR event manager said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Wayne and Mark for choosing to take part in the Great North Run for us.

“The event raises thousands of pounds for the charity every year, helping to improve the prevention, treatment and diagnosis of cancer in Yorkshire.

“We wish all our runners the best of luck for the day.”

See www.ycr.org.uk for more information about the charity and www.ycr.org.uk/wayneandmark to sponsor the dynamic duo.