An operations manager from Potters Bar is limbering up to run a half marathon in memory of a friend who died of cancer.

Paul Kidd, 39, of Mutton Lane, will run the Royal Parks Half Marathon on October 7 in memory of his friend Guy Francis.

Mr Francis died of bone cancer at the age of 23 after many years battling the disease.

Mr Kidd has been spurred on in his fundraising by the fact that his mother has also recently been diagnosed with bone cancer.

The challenge will see Mr Kidd running through Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, St James’s Park and Green Park to raise money for the Bone Cancer Research Trust.

He hopes that his fundraising will help the charity raise awareness of the cancer, which mainly affects children and young adults.

Mr Kidd said: “With the Olympics well underway, and having walked on a bed of hot coals a few years ago in memory of Guy and his dedication to BCRT, I thought it was about time to bring on the blisters once again.

“I will be joining ‘Team Bones’ and the other 12,500 runners who’ll race through four Royal Parks trying to take in the superb views of Buckingham Palace, London Eye and other well know landmarks.

“The sponsorship money I raise will help fund vital research into this devastating disease.”

Mr Kidd hopes to raise between £1,000 and £1,500 for the Bone Cancer Research Trust.