A keen runner is set to take on the London Marathon for Wrexham's Nightingale House Hospice.

Beckie Lawson, who lives near Chester, will be participating in the renowned race for the first time next year.

The 26-mile challenge holds special significance for Ms Lawson, as she will be running in memory of her mother, Janet Clark, who was cared for by the Nightingale House team in her final days.

Ms Lawson said: "The care and support we received at Nightingale House was beyond amazing, and to be able to give back to the hospice is something I would love to do.

"The relief we felt when we moved from hospital to the hospice for mum’s remaining days was immeasurable.

"The sense of peace it provided to my mum is something I will be eternally grateful for."

Ms Lawson sees the marathon as a way to focus her energy as she comes to terms with the sudden loss of her mother.

She said: "Running the marathon will also be a real focus for me to be able to set my sights on a challenge as I come to terms with the sudden and unexpected loss of mum, who was a wonderful, kind, and caring person."

The community has already shown support for Ms Lawson's cause, raising £1,200 for the hospice at Ms Clark's funeral.

Ms Lawson plans to organise more fundraising events at the village hall and church.

In addition to sponsorship, Ms Lawson is inviting supporters to dedicate one of her 26 miles to a lost loved one, with each dedication to be printed on her running vest.

A member of the Holt & Farndon Runners club, Ms Lawson is no stranger to fitness and will be supported by her family, friends, colleagues, and her local gym, CrossFit Wrexham.

She said: "I have never run a marathon, but it is something I have always wanted to do.

"I am into fitness and running and have done a half marathon before but never a full marathon.

"This is the ultimate challenge and I can’t wait to get started."

Beckie Lawson with her mum   (Image: Nightingale House Hospice)

Ms Lawson doesn't have a certain time goal in mind, she just wants to cross the finish line for her mum.

She said: "I know that mum will be there with me on the day and if I start to struggle I know she will give me the strength to cross the line."

Ms Lawson has a training schedule planned and will be out running no matter what the weather.

She said: "I will be starting a training plan starting in December and whatever the weather - I will stick with the plan and work hard."

Mike Jones, Nightingale House Hospice’s community fundraiser, said: "We are looking forward to supporting Beckie on this journey and are so grateful to her for her support for the hospice.

"Beckie’s plans for fundraising and training sound fantastic and I know she is going to absolutely smash the marathon."

To sponsor Ms Lawson, visit her fundraising page at bit.ly/40Smo4p.