Identical twins from York are preparing to run the London Marathon in memory of their father and cousin who both died from brain tumours.
Katie Liddell, from Husthwaite, and Natalie Cain, from Copmanthorpe, will join hundreds of thousands of runners for the gruelling 42km (26mi) trek on Sunday (April 27).
The 45-year-olds have raised more than £5,000 for brain tumour charities through their efforts.
Katie Liddell and Natalie Cain who are running the London Marathon (Image: Supplied) Their father Peter Watson, a well-known club steward at the York Railway Institute, died two years ago aged 70.
He fought a “short but courageous 10-week battle” after being diagnosed with grade four glioblastoma – an aggressive, fast growing brain tumour.
Natalie said his death left a “hole in our hearts and lives”.
The twins are also running in memory of their cousin Brydie Fox who died earlier this year aged 38, leaving behind two young children, Jack and Isla.
Brydie was also diagnosed with a glioblastoma and died after a “10-month courageous battle”, Natalie said.
Peter Watson and Brydie Fox who both died from brain tumours (Image: Supplied) Natalie, who works in the rail industry, and Katie, who works for City of York Council, are raising money for Brain Tumour Research and Children with Cancer UK.
In a statement, the sisters said they would be “thinking of those that are in pain everyday” during the run.
“Putting ourselves through the hard work and pain of a marathon is nothing compared to the pain and heartache many people go through who are affected by brain tumours and cancer,” they said.
“With several half marathons under our belt it’s time to take on a tougher challenge and help make a difference for those life’s lost, touched and affected.”