With just over three weeks to go now until the Wilmslow Half Marathon on Saturday 28th March, a family from Hale are taking their training up a notch with an aim to complete the 13.1 mile challenge in good time.

Made up of sister Talitha and four brothers Luke, Dominic, Patrick and Sam, 'Team Collard' will be running to raise money for the specialist cancer centre The Christie, where Sam was successfully treated for testicular cancer.

Sam, 36, was diagnosed with the disease back in 1990 just before his seventeenth birthday and underwent surgery and chemotherapy. 20 years later the finance director is now married to wife Susie and together they have three children, Matilda, Evie and Beatrice.

He said; "I actually reflect on the whole experience of having cancer in a very positive light and remember nothing but kindness from the people who looked after me.

"It is actually very difficult to put into words the admiration and affection I retain for The Christie and its staff. There can be few places in the world that combine professionalism and skill with a humanity and kindness that is so evident in the way staff there treat patients as individuals.

"It's a simply amazing place that has moulded my positive outlook on life."

Sam has participated in several events for The Christie, including the London Marathon which he has done twice, but this is the first time his family have agreed to join him on the starting line.

Sister Talitha, 26 said; "As a family, we've all seen first-hand what great work is done at The Christie so it's great for us to be able to give something back.

"Dominic and Sam signed up for the run a while ago and then the rest of us were challenged to do the same! On the day of the run, it's also our father's birthday so it'll be a great excuse for us to all get together for a big Sunday roast afterwards.

"We don't have a specific fundraising target in mind, but anything people can give would be greatly appreciated. Donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/theCollard5"

Registration for the 2010 Wilmslow Half Marathon has now closed but if you already have a place and would like to support The Christie please contact the events team on 0161 446 3400 or email events@christies.org.

Everyone who takes part on behalf of The Christie will receive a free t-shirt and sponsorship forms.

Meet the news team

For more information please contact: