THOUSANDS of people came together for the second ever Jane Tomlinson York 10k with a single intention - to raise tens of thousands of pounds for charity.

Among the 6,000 runners was Kevin Bradshaw, from Hovingham, who took part in the event in memory of his friend Stuart Ellis, who died in January this year from bowel cancer.

He was part of a ten-strong team who ran for Malton Palliative Care. They raised more than £2,000 for the hospice where Stuart spent his final days.

Kevin said: “The atmosphere was fantastic. We all had T-shirts with Stuart’s photograph printed on them.”

Kevin said despite falling ill two days before the event he managed to run the ten-kilometre course. “I hadn't eaten for two days.

“I was still determined to complete the whole distance and running for a cause really spurred me on. Once I reached the Millennium Bridge I knew I could do it.”

Despite his illness, Kevin finished after only one hour, eight minutes and ran the whole way. He said the group will again take part next year in memory of Stuart.

Eileen Rhodes, who turns 86 next month, took part with her daughter Kathy. They raised about £600 for charity.

Eileen, of Poppleton, said: “There were not many other people my age but I enjoy walking in my spare time and so did plenty of preparation for the event, although none of it would have been possible without the support and accompaniment of my daughter Kathy.”

The pair completed the course in two hours, 30minutes.

“The atmosphere was terrific, even better than last year and I'm hoping to take part again next year,” said Eileen, who donated the money she raised to McMillan Cancer Care, a charity which she has supported for many years.

Fiona Sellan also participated on Sunday and raised £150 for local charity SNAPPY (Special Needs and Play Provision for York) where her son, Adam, now 15, has been attending since he was nine.

She said: “There was an amazing atmosphere and I have already registered for next year. My husband and son have said they will join me next time.”