A group of Stourbridge mums plan to raise money for Mary Stevens Hospice when they take part in Brighton’s annual 26 mile marathon.

They will be running to raise money for the charity, having already nearly doubled their original fundraising target of £500 at the time of writing.

Stourbridge Mums on the Run (SMOR) is a running group set up by Emma Barnes in 2011. She decided that after some time solo running, she would much rather run with a buddy and some like-minded friends, prompting the creation of SMOR.

The group has expanded rapidly since then, now even including one honorary male member, and won "Community Sports Club of the Year 2016" at a local awards ceremony.

Co-ordinated on Facebook, members simply post where and when they would like to run, and local members have the opportunity to join them on runs ranging from short jogs all the way up to the full marathon in Brighton on Sunday.

The five members heading down to the coast to raise funds for the Hospice are Emma Barnes; Rebecca Powers; Lucy Stevens; Rachel Hunt and Sally Baker. Speaking on behalf of the group, Emma said:

“'The training has been mentally and physically challenging, but as a team we have been so supported by each other's strength, motivation and friendship. It truly is a Team SMOR effort. 

'We have spent the last few months  dedicated to training for this marathon, all made worthwhile by raising vital funds for Mary Stevens Hospice, a local charity close to our hearts.”

Dan Malin from Mary Stevens Hospice added:

“These ladies are fantastic supporters of ours and a source of pride for our entire community.

We couldn't be prouder that they will be our representatives in the Brighton marathon this year, and we know they'll love every minute of it."

If you would like to find out more about the group or speak to someone about potentially joining, please email stourbridgemumsontherun@gmail.com

To sponsor the ladies for their marathon, please visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/stourbridge-mums-on-the-run or to find out more about the work of the Mary Stevens Hospice, please visit marystevenshospice.co.uk.