Charity runs support vital cancer reseach

The Irish Cancer Society is asking people to pull on their running shoes in aid of cancer research.

They have appealed to people to get involved or support one of the 80 Terry Fox Runs taking place across the country today.

Cancer is the largest single killer of Irish people.

The National Cancer Registry estimates that 21,000 people will develop cancer this year and that almost 8,000 will die of the disease.

Chief Executive of the Cancer Society John McCormick said the Terry Fox Runs were founded in the memory of a young Canadian who died from cancer at the age of 20.

Terry Fox died during a sponsored walk across Canada to raise funds for cancer research.

Mr McCormick said the events represent a great family and community day out, and that all ages can take part.