The memory of a popular police officer on the Isle of Wight is inspiring a team of friends to continue the legacy of her fundraising.

More than 20 friends of the late Sergeant Penny Deacon completed the 2009 Isle of Wight Race for Life in her memory after she lost her battle against breast cancer in April.

The team hopes to have raised more than £1,000 for Cancer Research UK by running and walking the five kilometre course around Seaclose Park and the Medina playing fields in Newport on Sunday, July 26th.

Sergeant Deacon, who was undergoing treatment for cancer last summer, ran the entire Race for Life course alongside police colleagues and friends in 2008. Penny had raised more than £20,000 overall for charity since being diagnosed with cancer three years ago. She was the Sergeant in charge of the Newport North Safer Neighbourhoods Team on the Isle of Wight.

One of those who completed the Race for Life for Penny was Isle of Wight Targeted Patrol Team (TPT) Inspector Kate Fowles. She said: 

“Penny is sorely missed by her police colleagues and she remains an inspiration to everyone who knew her at work. Her upbeat character, consideration and compassion for others, and zest for life left a lasting impression in our lives. We wanted to complete this year’s race for Penny and carry on her tradition of selfless fundraising.”

To make a donation, log onto http://www.justgiving.com/pennydeaconraceforlife/

Island Pulse related news: King Wins Ladies Race For Life 2009   Seaclose Park and Medina Playing Field was in the pink for the annual Isle of Wight Race For Life, as an estimated 1,200 women and girls along with a few hundred supporters, male and female prepared for the Cancer Research UK event.  View Island Pulse Isle of Wight Race For Life 2009 Photo Gallery. Please note for every photograph purchased a donation of 50p will be given to Cancer Research UK .