Commonwealth and World medallist Lee McConnell visited her local Maggie’s Centre in the grounds of the Western Infirmary Hospital this week to witness firsthand the support that it offers to people across the west of Scotland affected by cancer.

Born and bred in Glasgow, Lee McConnell, is encouraging people to raise funds for the centre by signing up to take part in the Ignis Asset Management Women's 10K at Bellahouston Park on Sunday 10 May.

Maggie’s Glasgow receives over 13,000 visits a year and the centre relies solely upon fundraising to provide their varied programme of emotional and practical support.

Lee said: “I visited Maggie’s Centre at the start of March and I was blown away by the building, the environment, the atmosphere and the help and support that Maggie’s offers people living with cancer.

“My family, like many others, have been hit by cancer and it is important that people know that there is help and support available to help them through a life-changing experience. The Women’s 10k is a chance for women across Scotland to run for Maggie’s, to keep their vital support running.”

The 400m athlete who competed at the Athens and Beijing Olympics joins Sir Chris Hoy as a fellow Scottish Olympian who supports Maggie’s Centres.

Maggie’s Glasgow Community Fundraiser Jen Meenan, said: “We are all excited to welcome Lee on board as a supporter of Maggie’s. As soon as Lee walked in the door she instantly understood why our centre is so important to the thousands of people facing cancer in the region. We are hoping that many people will take heed of Lee’s advice and sign up for the Women’s 10k for Maggie’s. And don’t worry, you really don’t have to be an Olympic athlete to take part. This is for women of all ages and fitness levels, with some choosing to run and others to walk. It is a truly inspiring event as thousands of women take to the streets to help their chosen charity. I encourage you to be part of that for Maggie’s.”

Maggie’s are hoping to have 200-250 women signed up to the Women’s 10k and raise around £20,000 for the centre. So far a team of 40 have signed up from Glasgow’s Scottish Power Office plus a few centre users. A ‘warm-up’ party will be held at the centre the week before the event for those running for Maggie’s to have the chance to see the centre and meet others for some top tips for the day.

If you would like to run the Glasgow Women’s 10k for Maggie’s please contact Jen Meenan on 0141 330 3368.