A KIDDERMINSTER man will be taking a bite out of the Big Apple to help raise vital funds for Kidderminster’s Kemp Hospice.

Matthew Franks has decided to run his first ever marathon in New York on November 4 and has been in training for the big challenge since finding out he had been selected in February.

It will be a poignant run for Mr Franks as he will be completing the 26 miles in memory of his parents Ken and Barbara Franks, who both died of cancer. They both received care and support from Kemp in their final days.

The 39-year-old said: “In August 2000 while I was working for Princess Cruises, I sailed into New York City for the first time.

“Seeing the Manhattan skyline at sunrise was one of the most incredible things ever and from that day I'd always hoped I could take my parents there. Sadly, I never had the opportunity and in 2009 I lost my Dad to cancer and shortly after my Mum suffered secondary breast cancer and died in March 2010.

“During their illnesses Kemp Hospice provided vital support to both of them and I know this made a real difference to them.”

The New York Marathon will see Matthew run through the city past Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, Madison Avenue Bridge and through the iconic Central Park.

He added: “To this day I am so grateful to Kemp and I know my story isn’t an isolated case sadly as so many of our close friends and family have suffered similar losses.

“I'm doing the New York Marathon in memory of my parents and for anyone else who has suffered a loss of a loved one.

“Choosing Kemp will help the charity to continue to provide their wonderful care and support to other people, care and support that is needed at such a difficult time for people.”

To sponsor or make a donation to Matthew’s Big Apple adventure please visit his Just Giving page via www.kemphospice.org.uk/latest/bigapplematt.