A couple are tackling the Great North Run to raise money for Pancreatic Cancer Research.

Keighley GP Neil Smith and wife, Virginia Griffith, a dietician based at Airedale Hospital, aim to coin-in £4,000.

They were inspired to support the charity after Virginia’s sister, Penny Lown, was diagnosed with inoperable cancer of the pancreas in May.

She is currently undergoing chemotherapy.

The sisters’ father, Chris, died of the disease.

Dr Smith – who works at Ling House Medical Centre in Keighley – and his wife, who are both 52, are members of the Airedale Dodgers running club, and have taken part in the Great North Run before, but normally in aid of Manorlands.

“We are running in memory of Chris and on behalf of Penny and her family,” said Dr Smith.

“So far, we have been pledged more than £3,300, and we are now pushing for £4,000. We also want to raise awareness. Cure rates for pancreatic cancer are very low and much more research is needed.”

Visit justgiving.com/Neil-Smith61 to donate.

The Great North Run takes place on September 15.