A GYMKHANA held in Altarnun recently raised nearly £700 in aid of Cancer Research in memory of local boy Max Newman, who tragically died of leukaemia in 2007.

Max was a student at Launceston College and when people in the village heard the sad news they asked his dad, local postman Phil Newman, if there was anything they could do to help.

Phil just asked that people try and raise money for Cancer Research in order to help the next family hit by this terrible disease.

That is how the gymkhana began with many of the kids that Max went to school with competing in a low key, friendly event in his memory called 'Ride for Max.'

Organiser Claire Walker said: "There were only five of us to begin with but help has now come from everywhere and of course the kids that went to school with Max either compete in the Gymkhana or help on the day.

"Unfortunately last year we had to call the event off due to bad weather conditions, but thankfully we had wonderful weather this year and we are delighted to have raised £698.66 for Cancer Research."

She added: "We are very grateful to our local pub The Rising Sun Inn at Altarnun who kindly allowed us to stage a car boot fair in their field in the summer to raise money to start us off and they also sponsor the event by donating the beautiful Challenge Shield for the event which is kept in the pub on display. Everyone has been so generous donating raffle prizes, donations and support and this year we even managed to 'borrow' a toilet to save money.

"The event is kept very friendly and low key and gives local children an opportunity to ride in a relaxed environment with no dress code whilst raising money for a good cause. There are four classes: Tack and Turn Out, won this year Lowenna Stockman of Cardinham, riding Rubic; Best Veteran, first place going to Jade Robinson of Bolventor riding Gem; Fancy Dress, won by Joanne Smith of Warleggan dressed as Knight riding Joes Black; Chase Me Charlie 'Puissance' won by Rhiannon Smallworth from Tregirls, Altarnun.

Reserve Champion of the day was Lisa Winn of Altarnun riding Elvis and overall Champion of the day was Alex Smith of Warleggan riding Granite.

Claire continued: "If anyone would like to make a donation to this worthy cause — either financial or with items for car boot or raffle, please don't hesitate to contact me on 01566 86508. I would like to take this opportunity thank everyone that gave up their time to help, to the competitors and our generous sponsors. With all this support, I hope that 'Ride for Max' will continue to be a date fixed firmly in the annual Altarnun calendar."