Soap star's support to get athletes on the run

The star, who is famed for playing Jo Sugden in Yorkshire-based soap Emmerdale, is supporting Age UK’s 10k and 2k events at Harewood House on March 13.

Participants in the Harewood Dash, which takes in the sights of the historic house, will be raising money to support vulnerable older people across the country.

Some of the cash from this year’s event will help Age UK Leeds provide services and programmes for older people in the city such as its befriending scheme.

She said: “I was raised by my amazing grandma and I owe everything to her because she taught me my values which I believe are the greatest gift from the older generation.

“Her brothers were the dad I never had. They entertained me with magic, games and stories, things that can be lost in today’s technical online world.

“If I had one wish it would be for them to be here today.

“I loved nothing more than going to the cinema with my grandma and hearing tales about her younger days.

“If you’re lucky enough to still have your grandparents, spend more time with them and make the most of it.”

Runners keen to sign up to the Age UK Harewood Dash 10k and 2k event should visit www.ageuk.org.uk/10kHarewood.

For further details and enquiries email [email protected] or contact 0800 169 8787.