FOUR leading councillors put their running shoes on to make a sizeable contribution to a Sale charity that helps to fund children's cancer research by completing the New York marathon.

The quartet - Trafford Council leader Sean Anstee, deputy leader Alex Williams, Timperley councillor Nathan Evans and Salford member Christopher Clarkson - backed the Alex Hulme foundation when they tackled the largest marathon in the world in November.

And their efforts raised nearly £4,800 for the charity, which helps to develop research into non-Hodgkin lymphoma in children.

Cllr Anstee said: "Experiencing a run around New York was amazing and to do so for such a great cause made it all the more special."

Cllr Williams added: "It was a great day running the largest marathon in the world for a fantastic local charity'.

The charity was formed five and a half year ago by parents Nicola and Dave Hulme, after their son, Alex, died at the age of 12 of the non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

To date, it has raised £316,000 to develop research into the condition.

Dave Hulme, from Sale, said: "From our point of view, we are eternally grateful to Nathan, Sean, Alex and Chris for offering to undertake this event for the benefit of Alex's legacy and to the many, many wonderful people who supported their efforts.

"We are so fortunate to receive such fantastic backing for our local community and surrounding areas which is so vital as we attempt to achieve our aims on behalf of Alex."