A GROUP of four women from North Devon have a very obvious reason to take part inNorth Devon's biggest charity event.

The group, taking part in Nightwalk 2011, from Bradworthy, near Holsworthy are a family team and have been inspired to take part following one member's diagnosis of breast cancer back in 2009.

Shirley Prance, 64, was given the all clear in early 2010 but the experience of the disease has meant both she and three relatives feel they have to give something back.

Shirley's daughter, Nicola, her daughter-in-law Vicki and Vicki's sister Emma Horn will all be walking from Bideford to Barnstaple during the event being held on May 21.

Nicola explained how her mum's illness brought home how important it is to fund raise for cancer, particularly in such events as Nightwalk which raises money for both North Devon Hospice and Macmillan Cancer Support.

She said: "Before mum was diagnosed I think you continue thinking it will never be you that is affected, but of course for us it turned out not to be true.

"Also when you know people who have died, it makes you so aware of how important good care is, although mum never used the hospice we certainly know what a good service they provide."

Vicki, 32, said: "It is just such a good cause and of course doing it with Shirley makes the night have so much more meaning with her having battled cancer so recently herself.

Gerard Fawcitt, from North Devon Hospice's fundraising team, believes it is common for people whose lives have been touched by cancer to take part in the event.

He said: "Nightwalk has become a way for women to come together in solidarity, showing their support for local people who have been affected by cancer and other serious illnesses.

"Sadly, the services of North Devon Hospice and Macmillan Cancer Support are even more in demand because of the rise in illnesses such as cancer. Taking part in Nightwalk is a way to help both charities provide their essential care and support."

Nearly 1,800 women have signed up for this year's event, which is already exceeding the number that took part last year, but organisers are hoping to beat the 2,000 milestone to make 2011 the biggest event yet.

There is still time to enter and to do so, visit www.nightwalk.co.uk, call 01271 347224 oor email nightwalk@northdevonhospice.org.uk.