A Sudbury man, who was inspired to shed 8st in weight after his father died from a diabetic condition, is hoping to repay the charity that encouraged him to run his first marathon.

When Adrian Stohr, now 38, was diagnosed as clinically obese just weeks after his father passed away, he embarked on a punishing diet and exercise schedule that saw him lose a third of his body weight in a year. He was then given an opportunity to run the London Marathon in April 2013 by the charity, Children with Cancer UK.

His story piqued the interest of national BBC producers, who came to Sudbury to film Mr Stohr in training for the event, and he was one of just three runners nationally who featured in the marathon’s TV coverage on the day.

The father-of-three credits the whole experience for changing his life and he is now planning a ‘Black Tie & Posh Frocks Charity Ball’ at Stoke by Nayland Golf Club and Spa to raise money for the charity.

He said: “The position I put myself in was truly through my own ignorance, but children who have this disease (cancer) don’t have a choice. They are faced with the biggest fight of their life and I want to help and support them as best as I can.”

So far, he has raised more £5,000 and has set a £10,000 target. The likes of Sir Elton John, Matt Cardle and Jason Mansford have donated items for auction on the night of the ball, which is on October 11 at 7pm. Call Adrian on 01787 310945 for more information.