WEEKLY News reporter George Thorpe will be swapping his notepad for trainers on April 13...as he takes on the London Marathon.

The 27-year-old is attempting the 26.2mile route around the capital in aid of Helen Rollason Cancer Charity.

George is urging our readers to help him raise money for a fantastic cause.

He said: “I need to raise £2,000 before I can even think about starting the race.

“But I am confident it can be done before April 13 and even though it will be the hardest thing I’ve ever done, I am absolutely buzzing about it.”

Founded in 1999, the Hatfield Peverel-based charity supports cancer sufferers as they battle against the condition in a number of locations.

Named after BBC sports journalist Helen Rollason who lived in Brentwood and sadly died from cancer in 1999, George said he feels honoured to be fundraising for the charity.

He said: “My main journalism goal is to become a sports reporter, just like Helen, so there is a connection with me there.

“I have also lost friends and family to cancer including a good cricketing pal who was received care through the charity, so this is why I picked them to run for.”

On February 15, a quiz night has been arranged by George at the Orange Tree pub in Lower Anchor Street, Chelmsford.

To sponsor George, visit www.justgiving.com/GeorgeThorpe.