Staff members Aidan Loughridge, Leo McIlroy, Oorlagh McCambridge, Andrea McIlroy and Lauren McIlroy (aka The Cream Bun Society Marathon Relay Team) managed to complete the race and were delighted with their 1457th place.

The team are thrilled with the results of their fundraising also and Aidan Loughridge said, 'On behalf of the Cream Bun Society and P.J. McIlroy's I would like to say a sincere thanks to everyone who sponsored us and encouraged us to take part in the event. We had a great day and most importantly we have raised vital funds for the hospice as well as enjoying ourselves.'

Northern Ireland Hospice offers care to patients with cancer and other life threatening illnesses and gives support to their families whether the patient is being cared for in hospice or at home.

There are 3 Community Hospice Nurse Specialists currently based in and working in the local area, who care for patients in the comfort of their own homes throughout the Northern Trust.

They are specially trained in pain and symptom control and also offer emotional support to families in the area. Around 180 local patients and their families are cared for annually in this way.

Northern Ireland Hospice also provides a children's hospice service offering care to over 250 life limited children and their families across Northern Ireland every year.

There is no charge for hospice care – it is available to everyone on the basis of need. With limited government funding the hospice really depends on fundraising activities such as challenge events and regular donations to raise the vital funds needed to maintain hospice services across the province. It is estimated that the total running costs for all hospice services this year will be circa £7million.

For more information or if you are interested in finding out about how you can help, contact Angela on 077 7336 7284.