A WORCESTER firefighter is preparing to set the London Marathon ablaze in memory of her sister-in-law.
Becky Fawkes will take part in April’s Virgin Money London Marathon in the hope of raising £2,000 for St Richard’s Hospice, after it cared for her sister-in-law, Jenny Hall-Dixon, before her death last summer.
Since hearing she had been awarded a gold bond place to take part in the 26-mile challenge, Becky has been busy raising funds through collections at Kay’s Theatre Group, where Jenny was a keen member, and Worcester Wyevale Garden Centre.
Becky’s father, Dave Walker, a retired firefighter and coach for Worcester Athletic Club, is helping with her training and she is also being supported by her sister Rachel Clift, who competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics in the GB hockey team.
The family’s next fund-raising event will be an Abba inspired ‘70’s Disco’, which will take place on Saturday, March 11 from 7pm at Droitwich Golf Club.
Becky said: “My sister-in-law Jenny passed away in August last year after a long battle with cancer. She was looked after by St Richard’s as she had specialist nursing care needs which meant she couldn’t go home.
“We literally don’t know what we would have done without them. The kindness shown to Jenny and our family will stay with us forever.
“I promised Jenny I would run the London Marathon in her name to raise money for St Richard’s and I’ve been lucky enough to get a charity place. I’ve organised the Abba disco as part of my fund-raising. Jenny loved Abba which is where I got the idea from.
“She would love the fact you can have a fun night out which is helping to raise much needed money.
“If you’re a 70’s groover do get in touch. There are limited tickets so don’t delay.”
Tickets for the event cost £20, which includes food, and are available from Becky on 01905 759505 or 07759 435974.
Visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Becky-Fawkes to donate to Becky’s cause or for more information.
