A PROJECT manager from Beaconsfield will take on his 100th marathon in London 19 years after his first marathon - also London - for a cancer charity.

Richard Hyde will raise money for The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), in London, after seeing the impact breast cancer has had on his family.

In doing so, he will join the esteemed 100 Marathon Club – an achievement fewer people have managed than climbing Mount Everest.

Richard will also have competed in all six Abbott World Marathon Majors.

After his first marathon in 2000 in London, it took 12 years – and eight marathons – for Richard to be inspired to try reach the 100 mark after reading an article in Runner’s World about the elite club.

Since then, he has taken on 12 to 16 marathons every year across the world, with his mission taking him to four continents and 13 countries – including Japan, the USA, and South Africa.

He said he was inspired to raise money to support cancer research for his 100th race after his aunt sadly died from breast cancer and several other women in his family have been affected.

Richard wants to raise £2,000 for the charity and says he is confident he will smash his target, given his passion for the cause.

He said: “I knew I wanted to finish my challenge where it started, back in 2000, in London. Being my home town, it also just felt right. I can’t wait to get over the finish line and my family all be there to see me.

“This is, of course, a big race for me so I really wanted to use it to raise money for cancer research. I have seen so many people in my family deal with its effects, as well as some of my friends.

“It is great to run for a cause I really believe in. I am not just doing this for myself now, but for everyone who will benefit from advances in cancer research.”

Professor Paul Workman, Chief Executive of The Institute of Cancer Research, London, said: “We couldn’t be more proud of all the runners taking on the London Marathon for the ICR – it’s a huge physical effort but their fundraising makes a tremendous difference to our cancer research.

“With their support, we are inspired to work even harder to make discoveries that will improve and save lives.

The ICR has been carrying out research into the causes of cancer, and how it might be treated or prevented, for more than 100 years.

To support Richard, visit www.justgiving.com/richard-hyde8.