A NURSE plans to rise to one of England's largest sporting challenges in memory of her mother.

Lizzy Simpson, of Milburn Street, Crook, County Durham, will take part in the Bupa Great North Run, the world's biggest half marathon, on Tyneside on Sunday, September 21.

The 33-year-old is running in aid of Cancer Research UK in honour of her mother, Lydia Clark, 71, who died less than a week after she was diagnosed with cancer.

Mrs Simpson, a nurse at Homelands Hospital, Crook, County Durham, said: "I have lots of friends and relatives who have been touched by cancer and when mam died in March, I felt I wanted to do something in aid of the charity.

"That way, her life was not in vain and I can do my bit to help make a difference for other people coping with the disease.

"Mam had been sickly and in pain since Christmas, but it took three months to discover why, and though the doctors did all they could, it was too late."

She added: "Supporting Cancer Research UK will help look into better detection and treatment and also educate people more about how to spot less obvious cancers."

Mrs Simpson, who is married to Craig and has two children, Wayne, 15, and Danielle, nine, has already been pledged about £500 in sponsorship but is looking for more support.

To sponsor her, call (01388) 765287.

Runners who have not chosen a charity to support are being invited to run in aid of Cancer Research UK by calling 0870 162 1622.