People with personal experiences of cancer were among those who sacrificed an extra hour in bed yesterday to take part in a charity walk.

About 400 walkers braved dismal weather to participate in 'It's Not Just a Walk in the Park' in Oxford.

The three-mile stroll in the University Parks raised at least £20,000 towards Oxford's new £109m cancer centre.

Lydia Collins, from Browns Close, Oxford, took part with five school friends.

The 13-year-old, whose mum Julie, 42, was recently diagnosed with breast cancer, said hearing the news was devastating.

Lydia said: "Mum is doing fine and is recovering well. She is currently undergoing chemotherapy at Oxford's Churchill Hospital.

"The walk was really fun — we sang while walking around. Mum was really proud of me for doing it."

Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals NHS Trust organised the event, which was started by ITV Thames Valley Tonight presenter Wesley Smith.

Pat Chambers, 69, of Cleveland Drive, Cowley, walked in memory of her husband Terry, who died from prostate cancer five years ago.

She said Saturday would have been the couple's golden wedding anniversary.

Mrs Chambers said: "I miss Terry terribly. If he had have been here he would have done the walk with me."

Each walker was given a Bag for Life goody bag donated by Boots, one of the sponsors of the event.

Brian Jackson was diagnosed with cancer of the voice box in February.

The 49-year-old, of Northway, Oxford, was joined by wife Nicola, 13-month-old daughter Abigail, and other family and friends.

They raised £1,000 for the centre, which will be at the Churchill Hospital.

Mr Jackson said: "I enjoyed the walk, despite the weather. It was something that I wanted to do and I thank everyone who joined me."

The money raised will help pay for new equipment and landscaped garden terraces.

The 217-bed centre will replace out-dated facilities and bring specialist staff together on one site.

Graham Brodgen, head of community fundraising for the hospital trust, said: "It was fantastic — especially in such awful weather.

"A little bit of water is nothing compared to what cancer patients have to go through.

"We were not quite sure what to expect but we were delighted with the turnout and thank everyone for coming."

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