A man inspired by his wife’s work at a hospice is set to run the London Marathon in aid of a children’s charity.

Tony Nicol, of Sheredan Road, Highams Park, will tackle the 26-mile marathon on April 24, raising money for Children with Cancer UK.

A charity cake morning, with donations from bakery chain Percy Ingle, took place on Friday (February 5) at All Saints church hall, in Church Avenue, Highams Park.

Mr Nicol said that Donna’s work at Haven House Hospice, in Woodford Green, inspired him to run for a children’s charity.

He is aiming for £2,500 and has already accumulated £430.

The 46-year-old said: “I hear about the work she does and it is a fantastic cause to support charities who look after these children.

“I hope to raise as much as possible to help them.”

Mr Nicol only took up running last year and this is his first full marathon.

But has recently completed the Brighton half-marathon and Paris 10K.

He said: “I am confident I will be able to complete it but I have never done one before.

“About a year ago I started training to keep fit and I enjoyed it.

“It is a great that I can raise some money for a good cause at the same time.

Michael Ingle, joint owner of Percy Ingle, was happy to donate cakes to his friend.

He said: “I have known Tony for years so we wanted to help out.

“I am confident he can complete the marathon and I am sure he will be spurred on by our support.

“At Percy Ingle we are a family run business and donate to a lot of children’s charities, they mean a lot to us.”

To contribute to Mr Nicol’s cause click here.