TV star gives a boost to riders (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

TV star gives a boost to riders

Casualty star Rebekah Gibbs cheers Ref: 78094-08CASUALTY star Rebekah Gibbs set pulses and bikes racing at a charity event in Swindon.

The actress, who plays paramedic Nina in the BBC series, started the Get On Your Bike race at Lydiard Park yesterday.

About 160 cyclists rode the 16-mile route around Swindon, raising thousands of pounds for Cancer Research.

Rebekah, whose aunt has been diagnosed with the disease, said: "It is a fantastic charity because so many people's lives are touched by cancer.

"It raises so much money for research which helps save lives.

"I think it's fantastic that so many people of all ages have turned out today."

Nicky Anning, 40, of Woodhall Park, Swindon, also had a special reason to support the event as her mum, Margaret, died of liver cancer eight years ago.

"I'm looking forward to the ride as it's a bit different. I've raised £70," she said.

Roger Chadwick, 44, was part of a three-man team from solicitors Awdry, Bailey and Douglas, which has offices in Devizes, Wootton Bassett and Calne.

"I'm just doing it to raise money," he said. "Last time I rode a bike was when I did this event two years ago so I hope I can make the distance."

Natasha Russell, 26, the community fundraiser for Cancer Research, said she was pleased with the turn-out.

"It has been amazing," she said. "This is one of a series of cycle events to support Cancer Research UK's team of 3,000 scientists, doctors and nurses who work together to research the cause, prevention, improved treatment and ultimately a cure for the many types of cancer known to us.

"Sadly, at some point in our lives, one in three of us will get cancer.

"But Cancer Research UK is doing everything it can to look into the causes and prevention."

Last year, the charity, which spends £213m annually on research, raised £100,000 from bike rides.

This time it is hoping to top £150,000. The vision of Cancer Research UK is to conquer the disease by conducting research into it.

It is the world's leading independent charity dedicated to research on the causes, treatment and prevention of cancer.

Ben Payne