A HAMPSHIRE man is hoping to net more than £1,500 for two cancer charities by running 12 marathons in as many months.
Graeme Staddon has embarked on a 314-mile quest to raise vital funds after two members of his family were diagnosed with the disease.
His father-in-law, Tony Rest, a chemistry professor at Southampton University, died of prostate cancer in 2016 aged 73.
The following year his father, John Staddon, 79, diagnosed with breast cancer - a rare condition in men - and had to have an operation.
Graeme, of Thorney Hill, near Bransgore, said: "I'd like to do something to show my support for both these great men and help others suffering, now and in the future.
"I've recently re-discovered my love of running and intend to run one marathon a month in 2020.
"Some marathons will be official ones while others will be self-organised, with me running on my own but with support.
"I'm hoping to complete each marathon in around four hours, depending on the weather and other factors.
"I've set myself a target of £1,572 - £5 for every mile of the 12 marathons I plan to run before the end of the year."
Graeme has already completed two marathons, both of which he organised himself.
The first, which involved running from Highcliffe to Sandbanks and back, took him through Christchurch, Bournemouth and Poole.
The 51-year-old father of two, who is originally from New Zealand, finished in 3hr 33min.
Writing on social media afterwards he said: "That went a lot smoother than expected. No cramp and only a bit of tiredness over the last few miles.
"Conditions were perfect and the support from Paul Mckay was superb.
"I am doing this for two charities which are close to my heart - Prostate Cancer UK and Breast Cancer Care - so if you can give anything, no matter how big or small, it all counts.
"All money given is going to the charities. I will be covering any costs myself."
Earlier this month Graeme ran from Big Ben to Weybridge, mainly along the Thames Tow Path, finishing in 3hr 37min.
On March 8 he is due to take part in the Larmer Tree Marathon in Wiltshire with his wife Elinor.
His gruelling schedule also includes the Southampton Marathon on April 26, the Exeter equivalent on May 17 and the New Forest Ratler on June 13.
To donate go online and visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/GraemeStaddon.
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