AN Alton man will be running the Virgin London Marathon on April 22 in memory of his brother, Tim, who sadly passed away from pancreatic cancer early in 2017.

Chris Norkett, 51, started running as part of a weight loss and fitness programme in August 2015 and has since found his passion for the roads. He has put his hobby to a fantastic use by running the marathon for National charity – Pancreatic Cancer Action.

Chris, an Alton Sports Ambassador, said: “Early last year we lost my brother Tim to pancreatic cancer. The impact this has had on his family has obviously been quite profound.

“Raising money for Pancreatic Cancer Action is my chance to draw a line in the sand and to start fighting back on behalf of my family.”

He added: “This year I’ll be running a half marathon, two full marathons (including London) and three ultra marathons in memory of Tim and to raise awareness and funds for Pancreatic Cancer Action.”

Pancreatic cancer is the UK’s fifth biggest cancer killer. The survival rate is just five per cent which is the lowest of any cancer.

Pancreatic Cancer Action is committed to working towards earlier diagnosis of the disease so that surgery, currently the only cure, is made available to the sufferer. 

The charity funds research into early diagnosis, providing medical education programmes, and launching awareness campaigns.