A GROUP of employees from a Bicester-based bakery company have raised more than £2,000 for a local cancer support and therapy centre.

Thirty people from British Bakels raised the vital cash for the Hummingbird Centre by taking part in a 10km off road run on Saturday, which saw them battle a series of man-man made obstacles and wading neck deep through mud.

Customer service executive Esther-May Greenberg, who arranged the project, said the group had followed an intensive training programme in the lead up to the race, which involved training three times a week.

She said: "This was a fun activity and a real team effort to hit the target. We are delighted to be able to offer this support to such a worthwhile local charity."

British Bakels, based in Granville Road, encouraged its employees to sign up by pledging £50 per employee who completed the course, and other sponsors and the use of Gift Aid pushed the total towards £2,500.

The money will go towards funding the Hummingbird Centre in Station Road, which offers support to local cancer sufferers on a free-of-charge basis.

In addition to therapies and counselling it provides activities such as arts and crafts, make-up, meditation, pastoral care and a community matron.

Managing director of British Bakels Paul Morrow said: "This is such a worthwhile charity and I am proud of my colleagues who gave up their Saturday to travel to Leicestershire to raise funds.

"Special thanks should go to Esther-May for researching the event and organising it so well."