A BUILDING contractor is picking up the pace to support St Michael's Hospice in the Hereford Half Marathon.

A team of 22 Speller Metcalfe employees and their family members will take part in the 13.1 mile road race in aid of the Bartestree-based hospice.

The team are currently working to build the hospice's extension, which makes room for 20 beds in single en-suite rooms, therapy rooms, an open-plan dining room and more.

Steve Beck, contracts manager for the project, said: “We know how much the new accommodation will have a positive impact on current and future residents at St Michael’s, and we are trying to support the hospice in every way to make this a reality.

“One of our own employees, Bob Shenton, sadly passed away at St Michael’s last year and so this project has a personal angle for our team, as we know how important the hospice is to both the patients and their families.”

The half marathon takes place on May 11 at 10am from Halo Leisure Centre on Holmer Road, Hereford.

For information on entry fees and to enter visit www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk/Events/half-marathon-10km-and-fun-run/halfmarathon.