Teenage cricketer inspires 60 mile charity run

Finn says his "cricket family" and the Teenage Cancer Trust have been there to support him

A teenage cricketer recovering from treatment for a brain tumour is delighted two charities will be boosted by his "amazing" coach "running the race of his life".

Finn, 16, was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour in November 2024. Since then, he has had four major brain surgery operations, completed four months of chemotherapy and three weeks of radiotherapy.

His mentor Paul Yates, of Garstang, Lancashire, is running the length of the Westmorland Cricket League - almost 60 miles - from Penrith Cricket Club to the pair's own club Shireshead & Forton Cricket Club.

Finn, who will be waiting at the finish line, said his club and the charity had been a huge support.

'Astonishing'

Finn said: "Paul is an amazing man.

"He's a great cricketer and hopefully an even greater runner."

Mr Yates, 53, has been Finn's cricket mentor since he was seven years old and said it was clear the "bright and chirpy" youngster had natural talent from the start.

He was inspired by Finn to do the charity run and set up a joint fundraiser for his club's new pavilion and the Teenage Cancer Trust.

The coach said about Finn: "He's gone on to excel in all the junior age group teams, played county representative age group cricket, and opened the batting for Shireshead second XI last season," the coach said.

Mr Yates said Finn was inundated with messages of support from the club, described the way the teenager handled his diagnosis, operations and treatments as "astonishing".

Finn is currently undergoing physiotherapy and occupational health support and hopes to return to play cricket soon.

He has received help from the Teenage Cancer Trust charity which specialises in nursing care and support for young people with cancer.

Paul Yates said his teammates have bought him a Forrest Gump cap in a nod to the film character's long-distance running

Mr Yates completed a 30-mile ultra marathon last year and is taking on the challenge to raise funds for the trust and their cricket club which is in need of a new pavilion.

"My second XI teammates have bought me a Forrest Gump cap to run in, so I'm all kitted out," he said.

Finn said both his cricket family and the trust helped him through his most difficult times.

"I'm not sure how I would have coped with cancer and repeated brain operations without the love and kindness of those in cricket and my family and friends.

"Teenage Cancer Trust was there in hospital at the times I really needed it."

His father, Andy, added both had given his son "unrelenting support".

"Throughout his diagnosis and treatment Finn has stayed incredibly positive. To have the support from Paul, the cricket club and wider cricket community has been unbelievable."

He added: "Teenage Cancer Trust also provided the support that no-one else could."

Mr Yates was hoping to arrive at Shireshead & Forton Cricket Club at about 19:00 BST.

"I'm looking forward to seeing him at the finish line," Finn said.