People from across Keighley district raised thousands of pounds for charity by taking part in Sunday’s Great North Run.

Among those who completed the famous half-marathon were a couple supporting Pancreatic Cancer Research.

Virginia Griffith, a dietician based at Airedale Hospital, and her husband, Keighley GP Neil Smith, had intended to raise £4,000 but now expect to coin in more than £6,000.

The pair, who are both 52, were inspired to help their chosen charity after Virginia's sister Penny Lown was diagnosed with inoperable cancer of the pancreas in May.

Neil said: “We had a really good weekend. Despite dire weather forecasts, the rain held off apart from a brief shower one hour into the run, and the wind was actually behind us most of the way, resulting in personal best times for both of us.

“Virginia did two hours 36 minutes, and I dipped under the two-hour mark for the first time. We are so grateful to everyone who has donated.”

Also taking part was Keighley fitness trainer Matthew McArdle, who was running to help combat cystic fibrosis.

Matthew, 41, of Riddlesden, works with people who have the genetic condition. He was raising cash for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, and estimates he should collect about £500.

He was also running in memory of one of his former clients, John Broadbent, who died in May aged 29.

“I finished in one hour 48, which was actually a little quicker than I expected because I hadn’t been able to do much training,” he said. “The weather was a bit nasty - it started raining quite heavily after five miles and it was very windy.

“But I’m pleased with how I did and the money I’ve raised is an added bonus.”

Silsden man Mike Carey, who will be 70 this Saturday, completed his 12th Great North Run in two hours 24 minutes 47 seconds.

The retired teacher says he has raised about £1,500 in sponsorship for Martin House Children's Hospice.

He said: “I feel very fortunate to have been able to take part in the Great North Run again, in terms of health.

“One of the things that keeps me going is that the atmosphere is always wonderful. There's a great feeling of togetherness, and bands play along the route. My favourite is a Geordie folk group who always play the Blaydon Races as I pass."