A family tragedy provided the motivation for a Ledbury runner to face the challenge of the Paris Marathon.

Andrea Seeberg, of New Mills, lost her father to cancer 18 years ago.

The 36-year-old was working in French capital when she heard about the onset of his illness. The date was April 9 - the date of the Paris Marathon.

Now Andrea will run the event in aid of Cancer Research and hopes to raise at least £1,000.

She said: "I've already raised £790 towards my total, through the kind donations of friends."

Taking part alongside Andrea will be Bruce Rowell, the husband of her best friend, Jo.

It will be the first full marathon for both runners, who have been doing their training along the lanes of Much Marcle, Kempley and Dymock, clocking up around 35 miles a week.

Unlike Andrea, Bruce has some experience of long-distance running and has completed Ledbury Chase half-marathon course in two hours and one minute.

"It was gruelling," he said.

Mr Rowell, also of New Mills, hopes to raise more than £1,000 for the British Heart Foundation. He is already £800 towards that figure, thanks to the support of friends and local businesses.

He said: "My father, Tony, had heart surgery at Papworth Hospital. That was ten years ago and he's made a complete recovery."

The family has never forgotten the support of British Heart Foundation nurses at that time.

This year, the foundation hopes to raise £1m for research and post-operative care and Mr Rowell, 33, wants to help the charity to achieve its ambition.

Anyone wishing to sponsor Mr Rowell should call 01531 634987. To sponsor Mrs Seeberg call 01531 636692.