A PAIR of sisters from Oakworth will run a marathon in East Africa to give homeless children there a fresh start in life.

Hannah Yates, 23, and Gaynor Yates, 18, will run in the event in Masaka, Uganda, on June 1.

They are taking part to support a Ugandan-based refuge called Smile Street, which takes in street children and helps them get an education.

Hannah, a former South Craven School pupil, is training to be a quantity surveyor. Her sister, who went to Oakbank and Skipton Girls' High School, is currently volunteering in Tanzania and is due to begin university in September.

As part of their fundraising effort for the same good cause the sisters will hold an Easter run and bun sale in Oakworth on April 13.

The event, from 10am to 12.30pm, will be at Oakworth Methodist Church, in Lidget.

People can take part in the five-kilometre fun run, which sets off from the church at 10am, in return for a £2 donation.

There will also be cakes, tea, a raffle and a colouring competition. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Hannah said: "As food security is Smile Street's biggest challenge, my sister and I will be helping with the construction of a 'food forest' including carrying out various farming techniques.

"We'll also have the opportunity to spend time with those who benefit from the project.

"The money we raise will prevent children falling backing into street life through helping them to learn how to maintain the farm and ultimately provide them with tools to support themselves.

"As well as assisting Smile Street, we'll organise a sports day dedicated to disadvantaged children from local orphanages and schools.

"On the penultimate day we'll be running in the Uganda Marathon, with the money we raise going directly to our selected project. Our entry fee has already benefited local residents, by allocating 10 entry places to those who wouldn’t otherwise be able to enter.

"We've paid for our own flights, accommodation, race entry and all other costs.

"The Uganda Marathon’s aim is to give a hand-up not a hand-out. I feel this is vital to provide those who aren't as fortunate with the skills to be able to succeed in both vocations and education.

"During our time in Masaka we'll take part in cultural and language lessons as well as visit local villages.

"We'll learn about the hardships faced by young children living in Masaka, and about the various farming techniques to support Smile Street."

People wanting to back the sister's fundraising appeal can do so online at mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/yatesrunners