A MUM from Worcester is to take on a marathon – uphill – this September to raise money for the hospice which cared for her dad. Ruth Bennett, 39, is running from her home in Bevere to the Beacon summit on the Malvern Hills and back again in memory of her dad, Andrew Stockburn.

The determined runner says she wants to give something back to those who cared for her dad at St Richard’s Hospice, in Worcester, before he died in 2008.

“It’s been so disappointing to see so many running events cancelled this year, both for us as runners but also the charities who benefit so much from the fundraising they provide,” said Ruth, who had set herself a challenge to gain 40 runner’s medals by the time she was 40. “So, I decided I might not be able to run the flat marathons I hoped this year, and meet my ‘40 by 40 target’, but I could tackle one uphill - something I know will be a real challenge on tired legs.”

Ruth, a teacher, inspires other runners through her Instagram account @ruth_runs, which has gained more than 15,000 followers.

She said: “Running is my passion and it’s something that makes me feel connected to my dad, a keen runner himself. The Malverns were also his favourite place, somewhere we would go as a family, so my run to the beacon and back is very meaningful in that respect.

“St Richard’s took such great care of dad, both as a day hospice patient and at the end of his life. On the day dad died our nurse stayed with us beyond her shift; not wanting to leave my sister and I. I will never forget that.

“Nothing is too much trouble for patients and their loved ones at the hospice. Before the current pandemic, animals could be brought in to provide comfort and weddings arranged at short notice. One nurse once said to me ‘if it’s legal, we try and make it happen.’ And it’s for that exceptional care and kindness that I’ll be running this September.”

Tricia Cavell, fundraising director at St Richard’s Hospice, said: “It’s simply incredible to think Ruth is not only taking on a marathon for our care but a marathon uphill!

“It’s been a particularly challenging 2020 for charities like us with our fundraising income hit by event cancellations and charity shops having been closed. We’re touched when supporters like Ruth recognise that and remain determined to fundraise for our care solo or join one of our virtual events with their families or socially distanced friends.

To support Ruth in her challenge visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ruthrunsamarathon2020