A CHARITABLE fundraiser will be travelling across the English Chanel to take part in the Paris Marathon for a Stourbridge cause.

Anna Swingler will hope to raise plenty of money for Mary Stevens Hospice when she runs the 26.2 mile course around the French capital on Sunday, April 9.

The 25-year-old chose to support the Hagley Road charity after the passing of her nan Pat, who spent time in the hospice during her battle with cancer.

Anna said: “The hospice cared for my nan a few years ago who was suffering from cancer. When visiting I was so impressed with all the care the staff provided. The nurses and medical help that they provide to patients is remarkable.

“If I can raise even a tiny amount for this hospice it will make all the miles, training and time worth it.”

She will join about 35,000 other runners on a unique tour of the historic city, which the run taking in globally famous landmarks including the Eiffel Tower, the Arc De Triomphe and Notre Dame Cathedral.

Laura Millard, community engagement officer at Mary Stevens Hospice, said Anna is a “remarkable woman”, adding: “To run a marathon in itself is really quite incredible, but to travel all the way to Paris to do it in the name of the hospice is something so special.

“Our relationship with Anna was obviously born out of incredibly difficult circumstances, and for her to use such a tough situation as the motivation to do something wonderful for families in the same situation is just the most amazing show of strength and selflessness.

“We’ve no doubt she's going to absolutely smash it.”

To support Anna’s Paris Marathon challenge and donate to the hospice, visit www.justgiving.com/Anna-Swingler