Spotlight shines on charity walkers

A DOBCROSS duo will be hailed as shining lights when their pictures are beamed on to a Manchester city centre landmark next week.

Claire Richardson and Denis Dolan will join 10 other supporters of Cancer Research UK to herald the countdown to the charity’s first ever night-time walking marathon.

Their 50ft-tall images will be projected on to the side of the iconic Harvey Nichols store on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday to muster support for the “Shine” challenge.

Claire and Dennis, like the rest of the people on the images, have both been affected by cancer.

The high-profile campaign hopes to attract 5,000 well-wishers to sign up to raise more than £1 million to fund vital research into the disease.

Claire’s father, Mike Richardson, died only seven months after he was diagnosed with lung cancer at the age of 61. His wife and children were rocked by his death, despite undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment.

Claire (24) said: “We all assumed that my dad would get better. Losing him was a terrible blow for the whole family. I hope my picture will help to inspire someone to take part in the event.”

Dumbstruck

Dennis (68) is fighting his own battle — against prostate cancer.

A retired postman, married to Vera, and with two grandchildren, he lost his father to prostate cancer.

He said: “When I was told I had it, I was absolutely dumbstruck.”

Dennis made a good recovery after treatment, but last year doctors discovered the cancer had returned.

He added: “It was a real blow, but I have a very positive outlook, feel well in myself and am just getting on with things.

“Last year, my son John and I went to the Antarctic for a holiday. We had an absolutely fantastic time and I am in the process of planning my next trip.”

The Shine procession of light takes place on April 17, 2010. Walkers will march past specially-lit landmarks including Old Trafford, Manchester Town Hall and Cancer Research UK’s Paterson Institute in Withington.

Walkers must be over the age of 16, and entrants can choose to walk either a 26 or 13-mile route. Visit www.cancerreseachuk.org .