A BROTHER and sister are hoping their marathon efforts will raise thousands for a cancer charity.

Tom Smith, of Leigh Sinton, and his sister Naomi, of Storridge, both near Malvern, will be among the thousands taking part in the Flora London Marathon on Sunday to raise cash for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The charity provided support to their grandfather before his death.

For Tom, aged 31, this will be his sixth London Marathon, so he will be passing invaluable tips to Naomi, 24, who is taking part for the first time.

Mr Smith, who is an employee of npower in Warndon, Worcester, which is giving him £4 for every £1 that he raises, said: "Naomi has supported my brother Luke and I from the roadside in London numerous times over the past few years, but this is the very first time she has taken part.

"For both of us the training is going well, although the snow in February and a few illnesses have blighted perfect preparation. The majority of the long training runs are now done," he said.

To sponsor Mr Smith visit www.justgiving.com/TOM1