WHILE many of us enjoyed a lie-in this weekend, thousands were doing their bit for two very good causes.

It was the Pink Ribbonwalk’s 10th event at Blenheim Palace on Saturday. One of the people taking part was Margaret King from Witney. She has been involved for nine years and dedicates her efforts to family and friends, both men and women, she has lost to cancer.

It is thanks to people like Mrs King that more help and support is available to those who are battling with the disease.

With more than 1,000 people taking part, organisers are hoping to raise more than £100,000 for Breast Cancer Care.

Equally admirable was yesterday’s Town and Gown run through Oxford.

Another huge success, a record 3,241 people took part – the highest number in the event’s 33 years.

The race, which raises money for muscular dystrophy, is quite a sight with runners weaving their way through University Parks and into the city centre.

And some of the participants enjoy a bit of fancy dress including Phil Grant from Charlbury. Donning his Wonder Woman costume Phil has taken part for the last 20 years after his son was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy at the age of four.

People like Phil and Margaret represent the thousands of others who go the extra mile to help those in need. We hope they continue getting their running shoes on and inspire others to do the same.