A TEENAGER is taking part in the Great Manchester Run to raise money for a charity which supported his cousin through her cancer treatment.

Sam Taylor-Bolshaw, 15, from Trawden, will be taking part on the 10k run for Teenage Cancer Trust.

When Sam’s cousin, Becki Handy, 18, from Solihull, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer aged 16 she was treated on a Teenage Cancer Trust unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.

Becki has since had the all clear but still has to go back for check-ups.

Sam said: “I'm running for Teenage Cancer Trust because of the great work they did with my cousin Becki.

“I know during her cancer she felt really well supported by the charity and being treated in their unit meant she was surrounded by teenagers her own age which made such a difference to her.

“Becki told me she made lots of new friends whilst on the unit and they all supported one another as they recovered - they understand in a way others of us can't.

“The charity made life better for Becki so I wanted to do something for them so they can carry on helping teenagers who need their support.”

Sam is hoping to raise £200 for the charity when he takes part in Europe’s biggest 10k on Sunday, May 18.

Becki said: “The unit in Birmingham made being on treatment so much easier because I was treated in a teenage friendly environment.

“They did so much for me and my cousin raising money in my honour is so special.

“I am so grateful and so proud of him for helping to give something back to those who made my life feel worth living again.”