Miss Northern Ireland Katharine Walker is looking forward to a face-pack with a difference when she takes part in the Run Mucker Run Challenge to raise vital funds for Cancer Focus NI.

The intense 5 or 10k obstacle course takes place on Saturday, April 20, at 40 Kirk Road, Ballymoney. Katharine, who used to be a cross-country runner, said she can’t wait to get stuck in and urges everyone else to have a go too.

“It’s only mud, it washes off and it will be fantastic fun. It’s a bit different from going out for an ordinary run,” she said.

“What spurs me on is that the funds raised will stay in Northern Ireland to support local people with cancer and their families.

“Many people get a cancer diagnosis, which is devastating for them. My own grandparents have been affected. But, as an intensive care nurse, it’s seeing babies or a child with cancer, and the enormous impact on their families, that I find so unfair and unbearable.

“So, if you can help make life a little less tough for others by taking part in Run Mucker Run, please do. It’s a brilliant chance to raise money for a really worthwhile cause and have a ball at the same time.”

Cancer Focus NI, now in its 50th year, provides counselling, family support, bra-fitting for women who’ve had breast cancer, art and other complementary therapies for local cancer patients and their families. They also provide a wide range of cancer prevention services, fund research and advocate for better health policy. To sign up for Run Mucker Run, visit www.runmuckerrun.co.uk