A HAMPSHIRE grandma reeling from a shock cancer diagnosis is flying the flag for research as her daughters prepare for a fundraising run.

Kerry Herd, from Winchester, was diagnosed with breast cancer during routine screening and recently began a five-month chemotherapy course.

Her daughters, Courtney Pearse and Nikki Wellesley-Davies, have hailed her bravery and are taking part in Cancer Research UK's Race for Life next month in tribute to her.

Courtney, 24, who has two children of her own, said: “Mum was never ill and for her to suddenly be diagnosed with cancer was a real shock.

“We are very proud of how she is coping although anyone who knows mum would not expect anything else. She takes the view it is happening and she will deal with it.

“Because she is very brave and just gets on with it, that helps everyone else feel more at ease with it."

Ms Herd, 55, of Buriton Road, Harestock, has a family history of cancer.

Courtney added: “Our granddad died from cancer five years ago and mum’s aunt died of lung cancer two years ago.

"Race for Life is always quite emotional, but it will mean so much more taking part this year knowing just how much cancer research helps people like my mum”.

Courtney, from Kings Worthy, and Nikki, of Paddock View, Littleton, both work for Tesco in Harestock. The firm is Race for Life's lead sponsor.

Chris Woods, events manager, said: “Kerry’s positive attitude is what Race for Life is all about. It is not about being fit or fast. It’s about an army of women showing cancer that hell hath no fury like a woman in pink in the fight against cancer.

“With fire in their bellies and trainers at the ready, we know that our local ladies are up for the challenge.”

Winchester Race for Life takes place on Sunday, June 7. To sign up, or for more details, visit raceforlife.org.