THEY’VE become close friends because of the treatment they’ve had to go through. And yesterday, a visit by the Prime Minister was a welcome distraction for cancer patients Zac Durkin and Finlay White.

David Cameron greeted the youngsters and in doing so praised the work of the Oxford Children’s Hospital in Headington.

Supported by the Oxford Mail, the OX5 Run on March 30 is the biggest annual fundraiser for the hospital.

So it’s important that such an event has the backing of Mr Cameron.

Sadly there are many youngsters like Zac and Durkin who put on a brave face while being treated for their illness.

And they clearly struck a chord with the Prime Minister who has personal experience of the incredible care offered by nurses and doctors. His six-year-old son Ivan, who suffered from a rare disease called Ohtahara was treated at the children’s hospital before he died in 2009.

The run has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for the hospital and has supported children’s care across the county.

So it’s touching to see that 773 runners have signed up for this year’s event to continue the fundraising drive.

We want more of you running and hope the story of Zac and Finlay will inspire you to dust off running shoes and do your bit for what is a great cause.