I am entering the Great North Run for the 8th time to raise money in memory of my sister Janet who died as a result of Multiple Sclerosis in September 2003 and for my brother Arthur who also has MS and has deteriorated since my sister died.

This year all funds we raise will go directly to Burnley & Pendle MS Society. This local society do great work bringing MS sufferers to weekly meetings and arranges regular trips out for them. For some this is the only opportunity to get out of their homes.

My husband Bernard will be joining me on the start line again. He used to run a lot until he had regular knee surgery in 2000. He lost a lot of weight to help him to do the run last year and although his knee is riddled with arthritis he now enjoys running again albeit at a much gentler pace.

Our daughter Sarah is also helping to raise money with her friend Lucy by entering the junior race on the Saturday.

An estimated 85,000 people in the UK have Multiple Sclerosis and every week 50 people are diagnosed. Most sufferers are affected between the ages of 20 - 40 and often have  young familes and children to support.

 It is too late for my sister but if our fundraising can make a difference we think it is worth the effort.

Many thanks for your support.

Hazel Bernard Sarah Lucy