A former regional daily sports editor is running the London Marathon in tribute to a family member recovering from cancer.

Nick Loughlin, who used to run the sportsdesk on the Northern Echo, will undertake the challenge next month.

Nick, pictured, will be running in aid of Prostate Cancer after taking up a charity place in the marathon with the organisation.

He has written a series of blogs for the Darlington-based Echo about his preparation for the event, which has been moved to October from its traditional April date.

Nick wrote: “Prostate cancer affects one in eight men. Football has been a great platform for the charity, with managers sporting the badge, attending events and raising awareness.

“One in eight. That’s about 2,500 of your average Middlesbrough crowd or 660 at Hartlepool United.

“For me, it came to roost when my uncle was diagnosed earlier this year. I’d entered the ballot for London, but didn’t expect to get a spot.

“So instead, I applied for a charity place with Prostate Cancer. Ten weeks later and here we are, as my 12-week marathon training plan starts to kick in.

“Thanks to the wonderful staff at James Cook and the marvels of modern medicine, my uncle has had a robotic operation, both the cancer and his prostate removed, and is in full recovery mode.

“He has been through the mill a bit, both physically and emotionally. I’d like to think that this adventure around the streets of the capital is my way of showing support.”

To sponsor Nick, click here.