A LOVING daughter is preparing to run a half marathon in memory of her mum who was cared for by St Richard’s Hospice.

Emma Ross, who grew up in Badsey, near Evesham, will run the Cheltenham Half Marathon on Sunday October 1 and is raising money to support the hospice’s free care to patients with life-limiting illnesses.

The community midwife, who now lives in Cheltenham, experienced the support provided by St Richard’s when her mum, Caroline Fletcher, was cared for at its In-patient Unit in Worcester.

Mrs Fletcher, who had cancer, was initially cared for by a St Richard’s community nurse at home, before being admitted to the In-patient Unit, where she died in August 2016 aged 68.

Mrs Ross, aged 40, said: “The support at the hospice in that final week was amazing. She was given medication to help her feel comfortable and dad was able to stay over.

“On the In-patient unit the staff were so caring and had a good laugh with mum – they knew she was having a bad day if she hadn't put her lippy on.

“The food was lovely, the rooms all had a view into the gardens and she especially enjoyed the visits from the ducks. We could stay with her as much as we liked.

“I know that dad really appreciated the nurses’ support and since mum's death he has attended the cooking course. Considering this is a charity – St Richard’s is amazing.”

Mrs Ross, who last year completed a sprint triathlon, is currently hard at work preparing for the half-marathon – juggling training with a full time job and looking after her two children.

She will join thousands of runners taking on the 13.1 mile course through the heart of Cheltenham and has already raised more than £400 for the hospice.

To make a donation and help Mrs Ross’ fundraising visit justgiving.com/Emma-Ross1977