INTREPID fundraiser Darren Hodgson is really going that extra mile in memory of his father.

The 41-year-old from Thirsk is preparing to run the Greater Manchester Marathon in Trafford later this month.

His dad, Tom, died at the Lambert Memorial Community Hospital in Thirsk five years ago and Darren has always wanted to do something to say “thank you” to the hospital staff that cared for him.

A Thirsk man born and bred, Tom spent more than 20 years of his life visiting patients and staff at the Lambert every Sunday while delivering newspapers.

Darren is hoping to raise £2,620 – the equivalent of £100 per mile of the marathon.

“I have decided to dedicate my first – and probably last – marathon to raise funds for the hospital in order to help them give other people like my dad the very best of care and comfort, when they need it the most,” he said.

Suzi Campbell, from South Tees Hospitals Charity, said: “We wish Darren good luck with the marathon and much appreciate his efforts.”

To sponsor Darren visit justgiving.com/Darren-Hodgson2/ or send a text donation to 70070 with the code DMCH75 plus the amount you would like to donate up to £10.