WHEN mother-of-four Alison Cooper completes her first marathon in London on April 23, she will be doing more than fulfilling a long-term dream. Every step of the 26 miles will be run in memory of her much-loved brother-in-law, who died in June 2004 of can

WHEN mother-of-four Alison Cooper completes her first marathon in London on April 23, she will be doing more than fulfilling a long-term dream.

Every step of the 26 miles will be run in memory of her much-loved brother-in-law, who died in June 2004 of cancer aged just 53.

His tragic death made up Alison's mind to live for today and to raise funds for Cancer Research UK in the hope that similar deaths may be prevented in the future.

"He was such a family orientated man," said Alison.

"The whole family were devastated. His death taught me to do the things I want to, rather than keep putting them off."

Alison, who works as a housing needs officer for North Hertfordshire District Council and lives in Letchworth GC, obtained a place in the marathon through the ballot and wanted to run for Cancer Research UK.

"If the money I raise prevents one family experiencing what we have been through, it will be worth it," she said. "I feel I will be doing something positive for somebody else."

Alison, who is 42, has always kept fit and is a keen mountain biker along with husband Geoff. But marathon running is something quite new.

"I have run before but in the last year I have taken it much more seriously.

"For me to finish is the biggest aim and to run the whole route will be an achievement.

"I want to prove to myself that I can do this," said Alison.

She is getting the full support of Geoff and her children Julie-Ann, Aaron, Daryl and Jared, who range in age from 26 to 18 - although they do think she's "totally mad".

Training is taking up most of her spare time and energy but she is aiming to raise £1,000 in sponsorship and is also running a sweepstake offering a wide range of possible finish times.

All who sponsor Alison will be placed into a free prize draw.

If you would like to sponsor Alison, call her on 01462 474327.