A SOLDIER is preparing to run 32 miles in memory of a close friend and family member who is "sadly missed by many".

John Middleton, who lives in the St John's area of Worcester, will run alongside the Birmingham to Worcester Canal on Sunday, August 30.

The 29-year-old wants to raise as much money as possible for the Teenage Cancer Trust (TCT) following the death of Jack Sanders.

Mr Sanders was 22 when he died on March 24 this year following a three year battle against cancer.

"He was my daughter's uncle and a very close friend to me," Mr Middleton, who serves with the Royal Engineers, said.

"He was a great guy and a lot of his friends and family have been fundraising in his memory, so I wanted to do my bit too.

"I'll be leaving from the Gas Street Basin in Birmingham at 10am and I'm hoping to have arrived at Worcester Bridge sometime between 4pm and 6pm. I plan on running all the way, it's 32 miles.

"I chose to run this route as Jack was cared for at Birmingham's Queen Elizabeth Hospital with the TCT and Worcester was his home.

"Although I keep on top of my fitness in the Army, I've never really done anything like this before so it will be a challenge, but I'm excited about it. I hope people will support me."

To sponsor Mr Middleton, visit www.justgiving.com/John-Middleton7.