How heartwarming it is to see thousands of people from across the county give up their weekend to raise money for charity.

The Race for Life and Run for Moore, in the University Parks, along with the Big Step Forward, in South Park, pulled in big crowds on Saturday and yesterday.

What is even more impressive was that Race for Life alone is expected to raise a staggering £500,000 for Cancer Research UK over just two days in Oxford.

It is easy to be blasé about these events as so many seem to take place these days, but it should not detract from the achievement of these fundraisers.

Everyone who pulled on the trainers to run, jog or even walk around the courses in the stifling heat deserves a hearty pat on the back for their efforts.

For many it would have been a first time.

Hopefully even more will be inspired to take part next year.