A RIDDLESDEN woman whose brother was a diagnosed with cancer was among a group taking part in a charity horse ride and walk to help fight against this illness.

Donna Gott is part of the Cancer Research UK Peter Andre Fund, and is a community champion, helping to continually raise money for this organisation's lifesaving work.

Her 45-year-old brother, Darren Young, who lives in Wrose, was last year diagnosed with a rare tumour which affects one in a million people.

After his operation to remove the tumour in November 2016 he ended up in an induced coma in the Intensive Care Unit at St James Hospital, Leeds, following complications and the removal of half of his lung.

Mr Young, who had worked as a self-employed carpet fitter before he fell ill, had to spend 12 weeks recovering and is now undergoing radiotherapy.

Mrs Gott said the 14-mile horse ride and walk had been a success, and was well supported despite very wet weather.

She said: "It took place on Easter Sunday covering Esholt, Guiseley and Baildon to raise money for both Cancer Research UK and St James Hospital's, Bexley Wing.

"The ride was organised by Darren's ex-partner Gemma Sedgley, from Shipley, and was supported by her twin sister Georgina, daughter Daina, Darren’s son Joseph and local friends.

"In total we had seven horses and 20 people, some walking and some on horseback.

"Gemma is raising money to fund iPads for the intensive Care Unit at St James Hospital following Darren's recent stay there.

"During his time at the hospital Darren had a tracheostomy fitted, which meant he could not communicate verbally. That's where the iPad came in, but there is a shortage of these.

"Gemma's father Allen Sedgley has recently won his battle with facial cancer and joined the horse ride to show his support.

"Darren also joined us at the start of the route at the Old Glen House, Baildon, where 20 balloons were set off in memory of those who've lost their battles with cancer, including Gemma's auntie Sheila."

Mrs Gott, who is a director of a care agency, said the horse ride and walk had raised nearly £400, with previous fundraising for the same good causes adding at least £350 to this sum.

She stressed that the fundraising is continuing and people can contact her on 077305 86006 or Gemma on 078085 50586 if they want to donate.