Ben Ashworth with his family and Preston Mayor councillor Margaret McManus

Hundreds of runners and wellwishers turned out to greet a Preston hero as he arrived in Avenham Park.

Ben Ashworth, who is diagnosed with terminal bowel cancer, is running two laps of the Guild Wheel for the second time.

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His run included a 5k Santa Dash in Avenham Park with runners wearing santa hats and cheeky bottoms.

Ashworth, who lives in Broadgate, was overwhelmed by the show of support. He was greeted with a roar from the assembled crowd as we broadcast live on Periscope.

Ben was dressed in a superhero outfit, as were many other runners, in memory of Ric Clarke who recently passed away and helped Ben with his cancer battle.

Ben said: “It’s all for Ric today. He’s a wonderful and inspirational character. He helped me battle through this and I will miss him.

“It’s quite emotional really. Just thank you to everyone for the support you’ve given us.

“I couldn’t do it without the support we have received from everyone.

“It is an honour to raise money for these three great causes.”

He addressed the runners, along with his wife Louise, before the race around the park began.

The Santa Dash, which is due to raise more than £2,000 for bowel cancer and other cancer charities, was won by Warren Crook.

Warren who came first in the Santa Dash

He blitzed round the course in 19 minutes to pick up his medal and goodie bag.