A breast cancer survivor from Tasburgh has inspired her community after taking on the Great North Run

A breast cancer survivor has inspired her community after taking on the challenge of a lifetime.

Lesley Allgood was given the all clear in February after undergoing gruelling rounds of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, since September 2023.

To help to those who supported her, Lesley, 65, is now in training to take part in the Great North Run in September, with her friend, Viviene, 61. She will raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Shopkeepers in Long Stratton are also backing her mission and butcher Richard Dade, of the Butcher’s House, has arranged a special fund-raising day at the shopping precinct in August.

Lesley, who lives in Tasburgh, said: “Everyone has been so amazing, and so supportive.

“I’m in training for the run at the moment and though I am looking forward to it. I’m also a bit nervous.

“I completed the 5K Race for Life last year, just a few days after the chemotherapy stopped and thought it was a very hot day. I made it.

“I also want to raise awareness about how important going for a mammography is.”

Lesley, who is originally from Northumbria is looking forward the the 13.1 mile half marathon, and especially running over the Tyne Bridge, in Newcastle. Some 60,000 will be taking part.

She also recently raised £1,400 at a quiz and barbecue at Tasburgh Village Hall and Bar, which more than 90 people attended.

Lesley said: “I stayed positive throughout and just want to give back to everyone who supported me. I want to raise as much money for cancer research as I can.

“I’d also like to say a massive thank you to everyone at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital who were amazing throughout. I have nothing but admiration.”

To donate to the fund, visit, https://ajbellgreatnorthrun2025.enthuse.com

Richard Dade from the Butchers’ House, who is a friend, has gathered six businesses together for the fund-raising day in August. They include a sweet shop, one-stop-shop, plant shop, card shop and hairdresser.

Lesley said: “Richard has even dyed his mohican pink as a show of support.

“We will also have the Pink Lady tractor drivers join us on the day. There will be buskers, Bikeability charity, who do up bikes for disabled people.

“It should be amazing. I’m also planning to arrange someone to talk about cancer research.”