A HAY-on-Wye businesswoman, who is recovering from a major operation, remains determined to take part in the forthcoming Race for Life at Hereford as well as raising awareness for regular health checks for women.

Shortly before Easter, 32-year-old Charlotte Guy was diagnosed with cervical cancer which resulted in her having a hysterectomy. She still intends to take part in the 5k charity event at Hereford Racecourse on Sunday July 9, and is determined to spread the word about women needing to have routine smear tests.

A mother of two, Charlotte's diagnosis came as a "big shock" for the family, explains her mother, Jane Allport. "Fortunately she has been given the 'all clear'," she said. "Charlotte is passionate to get the message out to every woman how important it is to have these tests."

Said Charlotte, who runs The Sandwich Cellar in Hay with her mother: "I'd planned on the race before, and I'm determined to do the course, though I shall be walking."

She continued: "I've been told I need no further treatment because my cancer was caught so early."

The diagnosis came "out of the blue", she explained. "It was a shock, and I did bottle it up for a bit," she said.

She considered herself fortunate as she has her two children, Olly, aged four and 22-month-old Millie. She has returned to work at the sandwich business in the town's Backfold lane, and has her sights firmly set on raising funds for Cancer Research.

Within days of launching her appeal, Charlotte had raised £1,600.

"The generosity of people in Hay is amazing," she said.

Charlotte can be sponsored by donating to Cancer Research UK at https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/charlottes-fundraising-page-905?