JUST when the terrible crimes and actions of the few make you lose faith in human nature, you hear about the caring achievements of decent people.

Last week, 40 boxers from Bolton, Ireland, Oldham, Liverpool and Scotland took part in a boxing event at the town's Albert Halls. This was to help local cancer patient Gemma Feeney pay for specialist treatment in America.

And on Sunday, the thousands taking part - including plenty of local runners - in the Great North Run, for almost as many different charities, brought a lump to the throat.

Daily we may hear about the decadent, the disillusioned and the downright evil. But there are millions of people out there whose actions may never make the headlines. It's nice to think that they outnumber the other, uncaring crew.