AN East Morton mum is running her first-ever marathon in support of the hospice which cared for her late father-in-law.

Ceri Gallucci will take on the London Marathon next April to raise funds for Manorlands, at Oxenhope.

And she has spoken of how her father-in-law, Lucio, was supportive of her quest to complete the world-famous run.

Despite the marathon being Ceri's first, she and the family are no strangers to fundraising for the Sue Ryder hospice.

They have taken part in the popular Starlight Hike, her husband has run the London Marathon and their daughter, with friends, raised £300 by selling bracelets.

"Lucio died at Manorlands in September – aged 61 – which has been devastating for the entire family," says Ceri, 39.

"He was so supportive of all our fundraising. He encouraged me to sign up for the marathon, so regardless of how tough it is, I know I'm going to get through it in his memory. One of the last things Lucio said was that I could do it, and he wanted to be there."

Ceri pays tribute to the care provided to Lucio at the hospice, and the support shown to the family.

She adds: "After eight extremely difficult months battling cancer, Lucio spent his final 12 days at Manorlands.

"His stay at the hospice enabled us as a family to spend time with him, together, whilst ensuring he was cared for in as lovely an environment as possible.

"We cannot thank enough every single staff member at Manorlands, for everything they did both for Lucio and for us as a family during the most difficult of times.

"We'll be forever grateful for the warmth, kindness, care and compassion shown."

Adam Brunskill, a community fundraiser at Manorlands, thanks Ceri for tackling the marathon in support of the hospice.

He adds: "We are so grateful to Ceri for taking on such a huge challenge for our hospice.

"Her family has supported us regularly for many years now, and we are behind her all the way for her marathon!

"Fundraising activities like Ceri’s allow our hospice to continue running and provide care for those at the end of their lives, as well as their families, at this incredibly difficult time."

People can donate at justgiving.com/fundraising/ceri-gallucci40

All Manorlands services are free to patients and their loved ones, but it costs over £10,000 a day to keep the hospice doors open.