Upminster Cricket Club's Bobby Mack is used to counting runs and wickets during the summer months.

But he will be focusing on miles and minutes this winter as he steps up his training to run the 2025 London Marathon.

Stalwart Mack, 53, is running alongside partner Kaye to raise money for Saint Francis Hospice in memory of his late wife Sara and Kaye's friend Carla Leonard, who both spent the final weeks of their lives being cared for and looked after in the hospice.

And the pair recently completed the Victoria Park (Bobby 2:06.59) and Chelmsford (approximately 2:04) half marathons, which took place just a week apart!

Saint Francis Hospice is a local charity that provides care for local people who have been diagnosed with a serious illness and require care towards the end of their life.

"The love, compassion and professional care that Sara and Carla received at the hospice was incredible - they received around-the-clock care at their time of need," said Bobby, who represented Essex Over-50s this summer.

"Saint Francis Hospice also supports loved ones and families for everyone under their care and they also provide on-going support to those left behind.

"As Saint Francis Hospice is an independent charity, there is no cost for anyone who needs their services, nor to their carers."

To provide this dedicated and expert care, the hospice needs to raise over £8 million each year as only 28 per cent of their costs are paid by the government.

"We want to raise as much money as possible for such an amazing charity, but also raise awareness of the care and support Saint Francis has given to thousands of local families for the past 40 years," added Bobby, who has a joint £10,000 sponsorship target with Kaye.

Upminster CC are playing Brentwood CC in a charity football match at Brentwood Town on Friday November 8 (7.30pm), raising money for Saint Francis Hospice and the Brain Tumour Charity.

And anyone who would like to make a donation for Bobby and Kaye's cause can do so by visiting their fundraising page online at https://2025tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/bobbyandkaye