ONE Hereford woman will have a cause close to her heart as she takes on the challenge of a lifetime.

Jade Marsh, 23, is taking part in 10 half marathons in 10 months – as well as a full iron man triathlon next July – in memory of her dad.

The gruelling finale will see her endure a 2.4-mile open-water swim followed by a 112-mile bike ride and a full 26.2-mile marathon in just 17 hours.

Miss Marsh has completely self-funded the event so every penny of sponsorship money will go to two charities – the Motor Neurone Disease Association and St Michael’s Hospice.

“After losing dad in December to Motor Neurone disease (MND), I will be doing these challenges in his memory,” said Miss Marsh.

“It's too late for dad but I live in hope that a cure will be found so people won't have to go through what dad did, and so that families won't have to watch their loved ones suffer.”

Miss Marsh’ dad, Dylan Toney, died last December when he was just 51 – 10 days short of an 11-month battle with MND.

The progressive disease attacks the motor neurones, or nerves, in the brain and spinal cord.

It means messages gradually stop reaching muscles, which leads to weakness and wasting.

Determined to help find a cure and to raise money in his memory, Miss Marsh has thrown herself into a number of fundraising activities – having already completed a charity abseil, the London marathon and a terrifying wing-walk.

She is also raising funds for a local cause – St Michael’s Hospice – which provided support throughout the devastating experience of seeing her dad deteriorate over time.

“I often had to call them for help and advice about dad, and they were always so happy to help,” she said.

“The staff at the hospice really are the kindest people, and I will always support them, so that they can continue to care for families in the wonderful way they cared for us. I will always be grateful for the way they so wonderfully looked after my dad at the end. I have no doubt he received the absolute best care.”

Anyone who would like to sponsor Miss Marsh can donate online by visiting virginmoneygiving.com/JadeMarsh