A MARATHON runner has already smashed his fundraising target ahead of the race next weekend.

Jef Titmarsh, from Ipswich, is taking on the challenge of the London Marathon to raise funds for Cancer Campaign in Suffolk and he has already passed his initial fundraising target of £700.

Jef is thrilled with the support he has received from sponsors and is now extending his fundraising target to £1,000.

He said: “I decided to raise money for Cancer Campaign in Suffolk, as they are a local charity providing support to people before, during and after a cancer diagnosis.

“They also do great work in helping people to recognise the signs of cancer and providing all the support along with this.

“I chose this charity as they supported my soon-to-be father-in-law during his battle with cancer.”

Jef’s training partner for the 26.2-mile run has been his beagle, Dexter.

He said: “Dexter is the best training partner there is, whether its a light three-mile jog or a 10-mile run, you can be sure he’ll still be sprinting to the end.

“At only 18-months-old he’s got a lot of energy to burn and over the past four months he’s run countless miles by my side.

“Hopefully he’ll be there, along with my family, to cheer me on in London.”

Rachel Clarke, fundraiser for Cancer Campaign in Suffolk, said: “Jef’s doing a great job fundraising whilst training hard for the London Marathon. We are a small charity and Jef’s sponsorship will go a long way to helping us continue to provide cancer services, including advice, information, education and support to Suffolk residents.”

To support Jef’s marathon effort, go to www.justgiving.com/jef-titmarsh

For more information about Cancer Campaign in Suffolk, contact Rachel Clarke or Karen Hare on 01473 211884.