Cheltenham mum tackles London marathon and 100-mile run for Sue Ryder Hospice

Cheltenham mum Jane Shorting is preparing to undertake a huge challenge in memory of her friend Leigh, who was cared for at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice before her passing.

Jane will run the London Marathon and then embark on a 100-mile journey back home to Gloucestershire.

Jane, 53, along with her husband Mark, 62, will complete this heartfelt endeavour having shared a deep bond with Leigh over the years.

Leigh passed away after living with triple negative breast cancer and the couple hopes to honour her by raising significant funds for the hospice.

Leigh's time at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice was marked by comfort and reassuring care, a sentiment echoed by Jane when recalling the warm welcome and essential support provided by the hospice team in Leigh's final days.

Jane previously ran the 2025 London Marathon 10 times and last year she dressed as Buzz Lightyear, maintaining an emotional connection with Leigh throughout the route. Her 100-mile run back to Gloucestershire will cover roughly 34 miles each day, accompanied by Mark and a supporting group of friends.

The Cheltenham community offers strong backing for Jane, with local schools planning to join her for the final stretch to the hospice, along with Leigh's daughters.

Jane aims for a crowd of a hundred supporters for the last mile, as she works towards her ultimate goal of raising £100,000 for Sue Ryder.

With her previous fundraising reaching over £200,000, Jane also intends to run the Chicago and Berlin Marathons for Sue Ryder in 2026, reinforcing Cheltenham's commitment to supporting the hospice.

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