A WORCESTER man is planning to run 13 marathons in aid of a city hospice in memory of his girlfriend.

Adrian Norsworthy is hoping the raise the cash for St Richard’s Hospice in memory of Sarah Veall, a former Worcester News journalist, who died earlier this year aged 39.

Sarah, who worked with the sub editing team at your Worcester News for a number of years, died in June after a long battle with spinal cancer.

Mr Norsworthy, aged 40, said he wanted to give something back to the charity which had supported his girlfriend in her final days.

“Although we were only together a short time Sarah and I were soul mates and losing her has been the hardest thing I have ever had to cope with in my life,” he said.

“To me Sarah was that once in a lifetime person who comes along and just completes you and makes you so happy.

“Words can’t describe how happy I felt when we were together, she was my world and I miss her so much each and every day."

Mr Norsworthy said his girlfriend had been extremely grateful for support she was given by the hospice and had hoped to volunteer for the charity in the future.

“St Richard’s were superb to Sarah in the help and support they gave during her fight against the cancer, and since her death they have been incredible in the level of support offered towards myself as well," he said.

Sarah was an avid supporter of a range of charities and £442.81 was raised for St Richard’s at her funeral.

Mr Norsworthy, a branch manager with building suppliers SIG, will begin his epic challenge in the Isle of Anglesey next month followed by marathons in the New Forest in February, Telford in March, Worcester and Llanelli in April, Milton Keynes in May and Liverpool in June.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge,” he said.

“It’s not easy, especially now its dark, but most weekends I do 20 to 22 miles.

“I may do more than 13, we’ll see how the second half of the year goes.

“I like the sound of 15 in 2015.

“I know that Sarah would think I’m bonkers but would also be very proud of what I’m doing for the hospice in her memory, and the level of support and encouragement from my family and Sarah’s and also our friends has been great.”

He has already topped his fundraising target of £2,000 and is hoping to raise even more next year.

To donate visit www.justgiving.com/Sarah-Veall-Forget-Me-Not-Fund.