AN INSPIRATIONAL mum and son will be guests of honour at Race for Life in Chester this summer.

The Cancer Research UK fundraiser, which takes place at the racecourse on Sunday, June 23, is a women-only series of events which raises millions of pounds every year to pay for life-saving research.

VIP guest this year will be Nia Williams from Lache whose two-year-old son Noah Scott, survived an aggressive form of cancer thanks to good luck.

Aged just 13-months, Noah had been off his food when his mum tempted him to eat by feeding him prunes.

Noah loved the prunes so much he ate the lot leaving him feeling ill – prompting mum to take him to the doctor.

However, when the GP examined Noah, he felt a distinct swelling in his stomach and sent him immediately to the Countess of Chester Hospital for tests.

Noah was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer called ‘neuroblastoma’. But fortunately the tot, who was placed on a Cancer Research UK-funded clinical trial, was successfully treated with chemotherapy and surgery.

Nia, 30, said: “Taking part in Race for Life is my way of fighting back against cancer. I’m so grateful for the research that has helped Noah to survive and now I want to help others by supporting Cancer Research UK’s work.

“I took part in Race for Life at Chester last summer in tribute to Noah’s bravery and it will be great to set the participants off knowing he is now in remission.

“When Noah was diagnosed with cancer, it was very hard to take in the news. He had no symptoms and we would never have known there was anything wrong with him if it hadn’t been for the prune incident. Noah is so full of fun and mischief. He is a real little rascal and the light of our lives.”

By raising money through Race for Life, participants are helping Cancer Research UK’s doctors, nurses and scientists make advances in research which will help more men, women and children survive.

Laura Taylor, Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life Chester events manager, said: “Come on ladies, please join Nia and play your part by entering Race for Life in Chester today. Together, we can hit cancer where it hurts!”

Last year, 3,323 women took part in Race for Life in Chester and raised a fantastic £157,000. This year, organisers need 3,300 women and girls to stride out to help raise £150,000 for vital research.

To enter Race for Life today go to www.raceforlife.org or call 0845 600 6050.