Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy school staff rally to support their friends in Race for Life Pretty Muddy fundraiser for Cancer Research UK

School staff are set to get muddy for charity following news of a devastating terminal cancer diagnosis.

Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy staff have teamed up to take part in the Cancer Research UK Race for Life Pretty Muddy event taking place on June 21 at The National Water Sports Centre, Nottingham.

Year six teacher Fliss Pitts came up with the idea after her cousin Hazel Ellis, 39, was diagnosed with terminal cancer.

The wife and mother of a four-year-old and two-year-old was first diagnosed in April 2023, and underwent six months of intensive chemotherapy, two lots of surgery and 15 rounds of radiotherapy.

In September 2024, Hazel was given the all-clear; however, after feeling unwell and having more tests in March, she was informed that the cancer had returned and was deemed terminal.

Fliss said: “It’s heartbreaking, and in addition to this, a work colleague, Karen, an amazing and much-loved member of staff at Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy has also been given a similar diagnosis which is treatable but incurable.

“Doing this race won’t change the situation in the short term, but it’s one small way that as a school team we are trying to help.

“We have already had so many donations and messages of support, and the whole team is grateful for the support we are receiving.”

Sarah Camish, the headteacher at Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy, will also be taking part in the fundraising event.

Sarah said: “When Fliss told the Bilsthorpe staff team about her fundraising idea, we all wanted to help in any way possible.

“Cancer is a devastating diagnosis, affecting so many.

“Hopefully, this contribution will help fund research into finding treatments, and hopefully, very soon, a cure. It has to be worth all our best efforts.

“Already the Team Smile fundraising page is attracting more and more donations, helped on hugely by Fliss’s indomitable spirit and love for her family member, and the whole team is grateful to everyone who has pledged their support.”