ORGANISERS of the Hackpen 10k are celebrating their fourth year raising money for Brighter Futures to remember family-friend Gill Hussey.

The annual 10k race, held at Weir Farm in Broad Hinton on September 16, remembers Gill who died in 2014 after a battle with cancer and trips to Oxford for radiotherapy treatment.

Runners and close friends Paul and John Bailey started the race around the farm where Gill lived with husband James.

Paul told the Adver: “They started the radiotherapy appeal not long after Gill had died, so we could do something in our own way. Not everyone can organise and raise funds and we’re lucky to be able to have the know how to do it.

“It turned from a run into inviting people to walk it and its become quite a good thing on the local calendar now, loads of people are looking forward to it, we’ve got a good number of people signed up. I’m expecting over 200 people to take part this year.

“Every penny from the entrance fee raised is going to go to Brighter Futures."

Over the last three years the race has raised more than £20,000 for the Brighter Futures appeal.

“It’s just one of those days to remember people as well," said Paul.

"Gill is always in the back of your mind when your organising and sorting it out.

"I had known Gill for a long time, and she was such an inspirational person so it just feels good to do something in her memory.

“Loads of people I’ve known have had to travel up to Oxford for treatment, it’s just not a nice experience. I’m lucky that none of my personal family have gone through but I’ve know lots of people who have."

Local running club the Wroughton Wippets will be providing marshals and making cakes on race day. “I couldn’t do it on my own, added Paul.

"I’ve had some really good support from people.”

The route follows the Ridgeway giving runners a view of spectacular scenery and a memorial stone and bench dedicated to Gill.

“For the people that do know Gill it’s a nice way of remembering her. And it’s in a really nice location, not far from the White Horse. It’s a tough course but it’s very rewarding in all sorts of ways.”