A MEMBER of Halesowen Athletic and Cycling Club is taking part in one of the world’s greatest races this weekend as a tribute to his late mother.

James Parker, a commercial director, will be taking to the capital’s streets as he runs the London Marathon on Sunday (April 26).

The 43-year-old aims to raise about £2,000 in sponsorship money for Cancer Research UK in memory of his mother, Christine, who died from the disease five years ago.

Mr Parker, who lives in Stourbridge, said: “I have been raising money for Cancer Research ever since I lost my mum in 2010 and hope to give this excellent cause a big boost by taking part in my first London Marathon, which is a fantastic event.”

A keen runner, he has been training for several months and aims to finish the marathon in three hours 15 minutes.

Housing development firm Cameron Homes, where Mr Parker works, has agreed to sponsor him £10 per mile, doubled if he finishes the 26-mile course, making a donation of £520.

He added: “If I manage to break the three hours 15 minutes target Cameron have agreed that they will double their donation again to £1,040, so this is a really good incentive.

“I am really looking forward to the race and am very grateful to Cameron and everyone else who is supporting me but I am still looking for more sponsors.”

Donations can be made online at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JTParker15