The starting line is in sight for one runner ahead of a marathon task.

James Sayers, aged 41 and from Bridport, is preparing to take on the London Marathon on Sunday, April 22 and is running to remember the loss of his loved ones.

Mr Sayers is running to raise money for Bowel Cancer UK and Beating Bowel Cancer, two charities that hold extreme importance to him.

James' wife Sarah lost her mother Linda, aged 53, younger brother Anthony, aged 34, and grandfather John to the disease in the past decade.

James said: "I have seen first hand how each of them coped with living with cancer and the amazing strength, dignity and grace they showed.

"It takes loved ones away from us unfairly and far too early.

"The Puddys and Symes' were a very large and close knit family that let me into their lives. They were beautiful people who enriched mine and my children's lives and are sorely missed every single day."

To train for the marathon, James embarked on a 16-week special training program, which has seen him carry out a number of runs every week.

After giving up smoking more than a year ago, his running times have improved and seen him complete the Cardiff Half marathon in one hour and 39 minutes.

Through his training, James believes he can complete the marathon in under four hours, and hopes he can get close to three-and-a half hours.

On being awarded a place, James said: "I am really proud to be running the London Marathon on behalf of such a worthwhile charity.

"As soon as I was awarded a ballot place, I knew I wanted to run in their memory and for this charity."

James' fundraising has seen him don his running vest on dress down Friday's at his work, receiving donations and pledges from his colleagues.

More than 44 people die from bowel cancer every day in the UK and is the nation's second biggest cancer killer. If caught early, it is treatable and curable.

Bowel Cancer UK and Beating Bowel Cancer events manager, Leanne Richards, said: "We are very proud to have James running the London Marathon for us, it's an amazing challenge.

"The money raised will fund the highest quality research and essential information and support services that will save lives from bowel cancer."

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/james-sayers or text the code LNHK97 and your donation to 70070.