CRICKETERS stepped up to the challenge by raising more than £2,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support at the Reading Half Marathon on Sunday.

James White, Andy Sharp and Rob Dimmack all conquered the 13.1 mile course from the Madjeski Stadium and through the streets of Reading, along with thousands of other runners.

These three friends all play cricket for the same team, Theale and Tilehurst, which has Macmillan as the shirt sponsor.

There was a great deal of emotion behind the trio's fundraising campaign, with all three cricketers experiencing first hand how important the cancer charity has been to a member of their family.

Sunday XI captain James White said: "I ran the half marathon in honour of my grandfather, who sadly passed away a few years ago.

"We have been friends for a while and played together at Theale and Tilehurst for a number of years.

"Macmillan are also on the shirts of our cricket club, so it made obvious sense to do it for that charity and we are really grateful to everyone who donated to our cause."

Andy Sharp, who also lost his grandfather to cancer, said: "I witnessed first hand the great support that Macmillan gave my grandad during his treatment and saw this as a great opportunity to raise some money for such a worthy charity."

Rob Dimmack added: "I decided to run the Reading Half Marathon in memory of my dad, who passed away last year with cancer.

"It has given me a chance to repay a charity who helped my family by raising a lots of money."

Although the team have been delighted with the response from friends and family, they are still taking donations at: http://bit.ly/2mrZ3Vt

For more information about how to get involved with Theale and Tilehurst Cricket Club, contact James on 07825 225124.

A full write up and picture supplement will run in this Thursday's Reading Chronicle.