Lawson’s laps for cause ‘so impressive’

Formula One racer Liam Lawson’s appearance in Cromwell yesterday to raise funds for breast cancer research was organised by Highlands chief executive Josie Spillane after close friend and former Otago Daily Times journalist Louise Scott-Gallagher died from the disease this year.

Ms Scott-Gallagher’s husband Craig Gallagher and their daughter Lily, 2, were at the track for a "bittersweet" day.

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While Lily was excited to see Santa’s sleigh and keen for some mini golf, Mr Gallagher said just over six months since his wife’s "passing" it was nice to still be doing some meaningful work for the Breast Cancer Foundation.

"Josie, having known Louise well before I came on the scene, and such a dear friend of her, the person that she is, that she’s been able to put on today ... it’s been an incredible feat to pull off. To have Liam racing here today and raising so much money for the Breast Cancer Foundation is so impressive."

Mr Gallagher also praised the support of the crowd and their donations to the foundation.

"I think even Josie is blown away."

Lily had helped out, going through the queue handing out stickers and chatting with people while they waited, Mr Gallagher said.

julie.asher@alliedmedia.co.nz