IT professionals Matt Duncalf, aged 33, and Timothy Duncalf, 29, are running in memory of their brother Neil who died on April 22, 2002, from acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia – a rare type of blood cancer that affects around 600 people every year in the UK.

Matt said: "Neil was 20-years-old, a picture of physical perfection partaking in a number of sports including athletics.

"After he was diagnosed with leukaemia I donated my bone marrow to Neil in the hope that a transplant would save his life, as this procedure was his best chance of survival. Unfortunately his condition worsened dramatically and he died in April 2002."

Since his death the two brothers have been determined to raise money in his memory, believing that a physical challenge is a fitting tribute to him.

Timothy said: "Neil was a great athlete and I'm sure that if he were around today he would be competing in marathons and certainly beating us.

"In fact I remember training with him once when I thought I was at a reasonable level of fitness.

"Not only did he beat me by some margin he did so with leg weights attached to his ankles. It seems a fitting tribute to his bravery and a great way to raise money for Leukaemia Research.

"We also need to stress that this is a disease that does not discriminate and there is still no known cause."

To sponsor the Duncalf brothers in their fundraising effort, please visit their online fundraising website at www.justgiving.com/neilduncalf07