A team from a regional daily have completed a 10-mile run in memory of an editorial assistant who died suddenly in September.

Ken Draper, left, was the chief editorial assistant at Plymouth’s The Herald, having worked at the paper for nearly two decades, but died in September at the age of 61.

He was due to carry out the Bupa Great South Run on 28 October in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support after the charity helped him in his battle with tongue cancer last year and earlier this year.

But a team from the paper decided to carry out the run in his memory, raising more than £3,000 for the charity.

Those taking part were education reporter Claire Jones, head of supplements James Garnett and Ken’s sister Gina, while sports journalist Phil Stoneham had to pull out of the run due to illness.

James said: “I was very proud to be running for Ken and he kept me going strong. Every time I flagged I’d hear him tell me to get a move on! The crowds were brilliant and it was a great day.”

He completed the course in one hours and 12 minutes, Claire took one hour and 55 minutes and Gina crossed the finishing line in just over two hours.

Claire added: “I’m sure Ken was looking down on us and smiling, it was a great day and I felt very moved crossing the finish line. I’m delighted we have doubled his target.”

Ken raised more than £1,500 for the charity before his death and the team doubled this by raising more than £3,200.

To donate to the team, click here.