A BIG-HEARTED Halesowen charity fundraiser is preparing to tackle a gruelling series of runs this year including a marathon for the first time.

Georgina Lawrence,  aged 38, a fundraising assistant atStouirbridge's  Mary Stevens Hospice has dedicated this year to raising money through running after seeing the good work the hospice does on a daily basis.

Mrs Lawrence, of Summit Gardens, said: “I haven’t always been a runner; in fact I set my self a personal challenge to have completed a marathon by the age of 40.

"I have been training consistently and have been using the Fitness February month that the hospice is running to support me."

She added: "I know so many people that have friends and family members who have been cared for at Mary Stevens Hospice and I am aiming to raise as much money as I can.

"I see firsthand during my working day the difference that Mary Stevens Hospice services make to not only patients but to their loved ones, if I can help even in a small way then I will be satisfied.”

Kind-hearted staff at Mary Stevens Hospice have promised to sponsor Georgina and encourage her endeavours throughout the year.

Vicki Rowles, head of fundraising at the hospice, said “I am sure that George will complete all of the runs she has challenged herself with. George is such a determined lady and we wish her the best of luck.”

The hospice provides specialist palliative care to terminally ill patients and is a registered charity, fundraising is vital to its survival as the NHS only provides 18 per cent of its funding.