Cromer marathon runners set to pound the pavements of London and Brighton for children with cancer

Cromer supermarket worker Richard Ossitt, who will be running the London Marathon in April to support children and young people with cancer. Photo: SIMON CLIPSOM (Image: Archant)

Cromer Junior School teaching assistant Tina Tucker and Cromer Morrison's customer service assistant Richard Ossitt have between them already raised more than £1,000 towards the challenge, which will see Ms Tucker run the Brighton Marathon on April 14 and Mr Ossitt run the London Marathon on April 28.

Mr Ossitt, who is raising cash for Children with Cancer UK, was inspired to sign up for the London event by a mum-of-four he met while travelling in Australia.

Cromer Junior School teaching assistant Tina Tucker, who will be running the Brighton Marathon in April to support children and young people with cancer. Photo: ANDREAS YIASIMI (Image: Archant)

'Natalie's daughter Bronte had developed neuroblastoma and the story hit me very hard,' he explained. 'Fortunately, Bronte survived and made a full recovery, but there are many who do not and no parent should have to plan a child's funeral.'

Ms Tucker, 48, said meeting families at school who had been affected by cancer prompted her to sign up for the Brighton Marathon in aid of Clic Sargent, which supports children and young people with the disease.

She added: 'All this is a new experience for me, I am quite nervous, but knowing I will be raising money for such an admirable cause makes it all worthwhile.'

Both Mr Ossitt and Ms Tucker kicked off their fundraising efforts by joining friends and family for treadmill and static bike 'marathons' in the foyer of the Cromer Road store, with Richard, 32, raising just over £350, which will be match-funded by Morrisons, and Tina raising just over £530.

Morrison's Cromer community champion Simon Clipsom has been co-ordinating the store's fundraising efforts, which have seen staff, friends and shoppers raise thousands for Clic Sargent – the company's charity partner.

Norfolk Knitters and Stitchers are the latest local group to offer their support, with members pledging to knit up to 100 Easter chick 'hats' for chocolate eggs.

'It has been a wonderful partnership for all concerned,' Mr Clipsom said. 'I am so pleased we could support our local marathon runners, especially half way through their training programme when they might need a boost of encouragement.'

To knit an Easter chick, visit the Morrison's Cromer customer service desk for a pattern. The chicks will be sold for £1, with all proceeds going to Clic Sargent.