Shipley Stride walkers boosted the Macmillan Cancer Relief appeal by almost three times the amount raised last year.

This year's event, backed by the Telegraph & Argus, has already seen organisers receive more than £14,500 - and they are expecting more.

Michelle Norcliffe, fundraising manager at the charity, said: "Macmillan Cancer Relief would like to thank the T&A for their support. Without it the event would not have been as successful.

"We would also like to thank everyone who took part in the walk and everybody who donated money. The money raised will help us to provide more services for Bradford patients and their families.

"It will help to fund five additional Macmillan Nurses who specialise in haematology and urology."

Miss Norcliffe said the money would also be used to provide grants for cancer patients experiencing financial difficulties.

Up to 700 walkers took part in the circular five-mile walk from Shipley Glen to Faweather Grange, near Ilkley Moor, in May.

Among them was Marion Potts, who heard about the Shipley Stride and decided to walk in memory of the sister of her best friend Susan Haresign who died of a rare type of abdominal cancer at the age of 47 in January.

Mrs Potts said: "I told Susan what I was planning to do and asked if she would like to sponsor me. She told me she would do better than that and join me on the walk."

In the end a 29-strong 'Julie's army' raised more than £3,300.

Mrs Potts' and Mrs Haresign's employers - Green Flag Group, Leeds, and PM on Board, Bradford - donated £450.

Mrs Potts said: "I am thrilled to have raised so much money. I can't believe how supportive everybody has been."

Mrs Haresign said: "It was a very emotional experience for us all and it has helped keep Julie's memory alive."

George Dlugosz, Julie's husband, said: "I was overwhelmed by everyone's generosity and kindness. The walk was tribute to Julie's life."

Staff at Pace Microtechnology, Saltaire, collected double the amount they raised last year.

Fifteen people took part and raised £2,400, which included donations from the company's charity committee and its external legal advisors and insurers.

Also donating to the appeal were Soccercity, who raised £500.

"The event will be taking place again next year so I hope that we can continue to build on the success of this year's event," said Miss Norcliffe.