MORE than 300 people took part in a walk on Mother’s Day to support those afflicted by cancer.

Men, women, and children gathered at Barry Cemetery to walk to Barry Island and back during the #WalkInHerName fundraising and awareness event for ovarian cancer.

The event was organised by Alison Woolcock, in memory of her sister, ovarian cancer campaigner Lesley Woolcock and others afflicted by the disease. All money raised goes to Ovarian Cancer Action

Around £3300 was raised which will go towards finding an early diagnostic test as ovarian cancer is known as the silent killer.

March is Ovarian Cancer awareness month.

Currently it is estimated that 46 per cent of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer will survive for five years. With early diagnosis this would increase to 90 per cent.

Mum and grandmother Lesley Woolcock raised awareness for ovarian cancer and the importance of testing and early diagnosis while also raising thousands of pounds for supporting charities prior to her death, aged 47, in May 2016.

The former Vale of Glamorgan council play development worker successfully fought to be given live-prolonging drug Avastin after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2014.

She was initially told she had a urine infection and was sent away on two occasions with antibiotics. By the time she was diagnosed ovarian cancer had taken over her body and she was at stage three.

Speaking about the walk her sister Alison Woolcock, 47, said: “It was a fantastic atmosphere and showed support to survivors and those currently in treatment for cancer and to the families of those we have lost. It was wonderful seeing those who are currently in treatment being honoured as they walked the route

“Gold personalised balloons were created for those whom we have lost and silver personalised balloons for our warriors who are in treatment or are survivors.

“This event showed Barry community spirit at its best.”

“The feedback of all who have taken part was they enjoyed being part of this day. Paula Lloyd commented that she was not looking forward to Mothers Day without her mum Jeannie Maggs, but sharing the day with others made it better.”

Vale AM Jane Hutt, Court ward councillor Sandra Perkes, and Barry mayor and mayoress, Cllrs Nic and Shirley Hodges showed their support by taking part.

Friends of Barry Cemetery opened the chapel so candles could be lit in memory of loved-ones.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/alison-woolcock