A RUNNER 'inspired' by stories from an Oxford hospice will tackle his first full marathon in support of its cause.

Lee Vanstone from Witney is set to run the Brighton Marathon on Sunday, and has dedicated his sponsorship efforts to Helen & Douglas House.

The 28-year-old started running about four years ago, having overcome a spinal fracture at the age of 15 and more recently a fractured bone in his foot.

He said: "I have heard stories of great courage from parents of children who come to Helen & Douglas House for support and respite care.

"Hearing these stories really inspired me to want to push myself further for my next big running challenge.

"I am continually amazed at the work that Helen & Douglas House does and feel so proud to be challenging myself to raise funds for this fantastic hospice."

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Mr Vanstone is already close to his £1,500 target and has held fundraising events, including a coffee morning and raffle in Long Hanborough in February, which raised £900.

Attendees included Leanne Godfrey, whose daughter Lily-Mae receives care at the hospice.

Congratulating him on Twitter for his efforts, she said: "It’s people like you that help make our families make precious memories and help our children...From the bottom of my heart I am truly thankful."

Mr Vanstone has volunteered at several Helen & Douglas House events and also ran the Oxford Half Marathon for the charity last year.

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He said: "I first found out about the excellent work Helen & Douglas House do when I came with my mum to the Oxford Open Doors event.

"Seeing the hospice for the first time and hearing about the support the hospice provides to local families is awe-inspiring. Knowing how much the hospice relies on donations really made we want to help.

‘When training gets challenging, I remind myself of what a difference the fundraising makes to the lives of everyone who uses [the hospice]."