A Leominster man who battled leukaemia to see his son run the London Marathon and carry the Olympic Torch has died, aged 63.

Roger Baxter was given just three months to live after being diagnosed in June 2009 but bravely fought on until Sunday, August 26.

The diagnosis three years ago prompted his sons Jordan and Dane to help raise awareness of the condition, with Jordan collecting more than £10,000 for the Anthony Nolan Trust by running the London Marathon.

Dane was so proud of his brother’s achievements that he nominated him to carry the Olympic Torch when it passed through Herefordshire in May.

Jordan carried the flame through Leominster as his dad looked on.

The brothers also arranged a drop-in session to increase donors on the Anthony Nolan Trust register which later paired Dane with a ‘mystery woman’ who he is set to help in the near future.

“The Torch relay was very emotional," said Dane.

"Dad was very proud.

“He had his goals. He wanted to see Jordan run the marathon, then he wanted to see him carry the Torch through Leominster.

“He also wanted to see the Olympics which he did. He loved it.”

The family thanked all the doctors and nurses who helped Roger since he was diagnosed. They also paid tribute to the “marvellous” staff in the ITU unit at Hereford County Hospital.

Roger also leaves a wife, Susan.

His funeral will be held at Leominster’s Priory Church at 1pm on Monday, September 10.