Hundreds of people are set to compete in a charity challenge in memory of a former regional journalist who died earlier this year.

The ‘Run 50k 4 Kev’ challenge has been organised to honour Kevin Leonard, who worked for BBC Wales, Cardiff University and the South Wales Echo during his career.

Kevin, pictured, died from lung cancer in February 2021 at the age of 51.

The challenge, organised by Kevin’s wife Eben, encourages participants to run, walk or cycle 50k during September and will raise money for Cardiff’s City Hospice.

More than 250 fundraisers have signed up so far.

Eben said: “Losing Kev, a 19-minute park-runner and regular gym-goer, at the age of 51 to the cruel disease of lung cancer has been heartbreaking.

“During the darkest of times, City Hospice provided immeasurable care for us; managing Kevin’s symptoms and allowing him to be cared for at home, safe from Covid.

“We want to give back to this amazing charity and are combining the love Kevin had for the outdoors with fundraising for City Hospice to say thank you.

“We’re putting on our trainers to complete 50k in our ‘Kevathon’ this September to raise £10,000 for this wonderful charity who helped us beyond measure.”

Daisy Magill, fundraising and events coordinator at City Hospice, added: “We’d like to thank Eben’s family, friends and Kevin’s colleagues for supporting Eben and taking on ‘Run 50k 4 Kev’ this September.

“We’re delighted that over 250 people have ordered t-shirts ready for the challenge and will be following their progress every step of the way.

“The generous support will enable us to continue to care people in our community when they need us the most.”

More information can be found here.