A MAN is preparing to run more than 100 miles in 24 hours in aid of a cancer charity and the hospice that cared for his mum.

Ryan Hearn, 29, will take on the epic challenge of the 103.8 mile trail across the Cotswold Way, starting in Bath and finishing in Chipping Campden, during the final weekend of July. He will be raising funds for Cancer Research and Wheatfields Hospice.

Ryan, 29, is originally from Leeds but due to his army career and travelling round on various postings he now lives in Gloucester.

He said: “I have done arduous events during my time in the armed forces but never anything running for 24 hours, I think if I had done something previously I probably wouldn’t be doing it again.”

Ryan has chosen to support Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice in memory of his mum Rosemary Hearn who received end of life care at the hospice.

He said: "The reason I am doing this event is because my mum was diagnosed with cancer almost three years ago, I started training for this event when she was still with us but sadly she passed away this April in Wheatfields.

“My original plan was to get £5,000 for Cancer Research and that was it but once my mum deteriorated and began end of life care it was obvious I had to do something for Sue Ryder Hospice at Wheatfields.

“My mum was happy to be there and the staff were amazing with her right until the end.

“I’m more determined than ever to hit £5,000 for Sue Ryder Hospice at Wheatfields and also to complete this run.”

Kirsty Christmas, Community Fundraising Manager for Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice said: “The past year has been really tough for everyone, with many families experiencing loss.

“Our Sue Ryder nurses and healthcare teams have always been there for patients and families and the most difficult time of their lives. They take away some of the tough things that come with losing a loved one, helping to fill rooms with favourite music, photographs and the people that mean the most, This leaves families free to focus on the most important thing of all – love.

“The support of people like makes a big difference. With that help our teams can continue to go above and beyond, filling last days with love and helping to give families a better goodbye. We are so grateful for his support.”

Ryan's initial target of £5,000 will be donated to Cancer Research UK, with any extra being donated to Wheatfields Hospice.Visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Ryan-Hearn-Cotswold-Way-Challenge to find our more, or to donate.

The hospice's website says: "We provide expert palliative care. We support you when you’re living with a life-limiting condition, and also help your loved ones and family.

It adds: "We combine specialist medical care for managing pain and other symptoms, with other emotional, practical and spiritual support."