CHILDMINDERS in Yate are preparing to run the race of their lives in memory of their closest friend.

North Yate Childminders’ Group is entering a team in this summer’s Relay for Life in aid of Cancer Research UK.

The Girls Allowed team ran in last year’s event, which is held at Yate Outdoor Sports Complex, when the group’s founder member, Vanessa Dye, completed a few laps in her wheelchair.

It was to be her last ever outing as she died of pancreatic cancer three weeks later.

"It coincided with her 50th birthday," said Vanessa’s husband Charlie.

"We were only going to go for 10 minutes as she was very ill but we ended up staying for four hours. She did a few laps and held the team’s mascot.

"It meant a lot to her and had given her something to aim for. It was the last thing she enjoyed doing.

"After that she deteriorated quite quickly."

Vanessa, from Brimsham Park, was a childminder in Yate for more than 20 years. A mother-of-two, she also looked after her two young grandsons.

"She was just a natural with children," said Charlie, who works for Alderley Systems in Wickwar.

"All her life she loved being around children."

Vanessa was diagnosed in January 2007 and despite a major operation, the cancer returned. She took part in a chemotherapy clinical trial prior to her death.

"We knew at the start of 2008 that it was terminal but Vanessa wanted to do everything she could for other people," said Charlie.

"She took part in the trials even though she knew it could not help her because she wanted to give something back."

Sixteen childminders and parents are running this year’s Relay for Life in memory of Vanessa, on Saturday, July 4 and Sunday, July 5.

Team captain Paula Mayers, who herself fought breast cancer two years ago, said: "Vanessa was my closest friend.

"We are doing it all for her.

"Last year we raised more than £2,000 and it was brilliant but this year we have been fundraising before the actual relay and hope to raise even more money.

"We need more people to come and support us on the day."

The team will also run the race in memory of 35-year-old mum Mirelle Wickett, who died from a rare form of cancer last year. Team member Jo Newman is still a childminder for Mirelle’s 11-year-old son.

The group held a fun day at Yate Methodist Church last Wednesday, which raised more than £300. Around 100 children enjoyed a bouncy castle, crafts and a teddy tombola at the event, where Charlie was guest of honour.

He added: "Vanessa and the other childminders were inseparable.

"This is a really lovely way to remember her and it will help other people in the same boat."

To sponsor the team visit www.justgiving.com and search for Girls Allowed.