A MARATHON runner has set herself 18 challenges to raise cash for Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in memory of her dad.

Helen Turner from Chester was inspired to help people with cancer after she lost her beloved dad, Mal Barrett, to the disease.

The mum-of-two from Chester was inspired to help people with cancer and decided to take on 18 challenges in 18 months to raise money for the charity.

Dad Mal, from Wallasey, was 69 when he died and Helen said his loss has left a devastating effect on the family but the care and treatment he received at The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in Wirral would never be forgotten by his family.

She said: "The team at the hospital were phenomenal and if I can do something to help people like Dad then I really want to do that.

"He was treated at Clatterbridge at various stages and I really just want to give something back to say thank you for that.

"This is going to be 18 months of madness.

"But it will be a real challenge and something that I hope will make a difference."

Helen is now five events into her challenge.

She has completed the Tough Mudder, and has run four half marathons, a challenge that would leave most people wanting to put their feet up.

But not Helen, who is married to Topsy, who she met when they were working in the merchant navy.

She is fitting in training with looking after their sons Harry, four, and two-year-old Euan.

Helen isn't deterred though and even a back injury won't dampen her determination.

She said: "I have already done half marathons in Edinburgh and Manchester as well as the Great South Run and the Tatton Park half marathon.

"I want to do some open water swims and bike rides as well. It is a real challenge but I can't wait.

"My mum and my sister Lynne have been brilliant, with practical things like helping with the boys while I am training and emotional support as well.

"They're both amazingly strong women and we would be lost without each other.”

The Clatterbridge Cancer Charity is raising £15 million for the building of a new specialist hospital in Liverpool and improvements to the Wirral site.

Samantha Archibald, events manager at The Clatterbridge Cancer Charity, said: "To run a half marathon or swim an open water mile is an achievement, to set out to do that 18 times in 18 months is quite something.

"It is thanks to Helen and all our supporters that we are on a journey to transform cancer care.

"We can't thank her enough and wish her the best of luck for the next 18 months.”

To support Helen, visit her justgiving page www.justgiving.com/Helen-Barrett14?utm_id=25