A MAN is running the London Marathon in tribute to the hospice which cared for his grandparents.

Simon Haithwaite will pound the streets of the capital on Sunday, October 2, to raise money for Manorlands, at Oxenhope.

His grandfather, Geoff Haithwaite, received care at the hospice in 2012 before his death from lung cancer.

And eight years later, Simon's grandma on his mum's side of the family – Irene Whitham – spent her final days at Manorlands after a short battle with oesophagus cancer.

Simon, 34, from Bingley, says: "As devastating as this experience was, knowing that my grandparents were treated by such a wonderful group of carers, nurses and doctors was a real consolation.

"The end-of-life care and support that both my grandparents received was incredible and I feel it's my duty now to raise as much money as I can to help the hospice be there when it matters for other people in ill health and their families."

Simon’s interest in running began five years ago, when he signed up to do a 5k.

"I thought I could easily do five kilometres but when I started training I realised I needed to quit smoking and really start looking after myself!" he says.

"There was one day when it just clicked for me and I totally fell in love with running. Since then I’ve given myself bigger and bigger challenges.

"I signed up for the marathon two-and-a-half years ago but my son was due to be born two days later, so I thought it was best not to run it just in case! I then tried to run the virtual London Marathon last year for Sue Ryder but got a knee injury and had to pull out again. I have been trying to make it happen ever since and so was over the moon when I got a phone call to let me know that I had a 2022 place!

"Training has been going really well and I am looking forward to race day. I can’t wait for the atmosphere. I lived in London and have been to watch the marathon many times, but to actually be part of it – and in memory of two very special people – will be amazing."

He added: "If my grandparents knew I was running the London Marathon I think they'd be very proud."

To support Simon, visit his online fundraising page at justgiving.com/fundraising/Haithwaite.