A 'heroic' woman from Altrincham is preparing to run another lengthy race to raise money for the hospice that cared for her late sister.

Barbara Thackray has been supporting St Ann's Hospice for more than a decade since her late sister, Audrey, was a patient at the hospice in Heald Green.

Earlier this year, Barbara completed the Trafford 10k run on her 85th birthday alongside 11 members of her family while other loved ones cheered her on from the sides.

To date, she has raised more than £20,000 for the hospice through her fundraising efforts.

Now, she is set to take on the Altrincham 10k tomorrow (Sunday, September 17) with her family to raise even more for the charity.

Barbara said: "For this race my family and I are raising money for St Ann's Build It Together campaign, which is raising funds for the new hospice building in Heald Green,

"I'm so excited to be running with my family.

"There are three generations of us taking on this race, including my sister's son who knows the excellent care everyone receives at the hospice since his mum was cared for there."

She added: "My sister's death was much better due to St Ann's Hospice - they'll do whatever they can for their patient to have the best quality death they possibly can have - and that's worth supporting."

The grandmother started to run at the age of 77 and now runs two 10ks each week, saying she's glad she found running as "something that is keeping me fit as I've walked all my life."

She added: "My message to anyone of a similar age considering starting running is to begin gently and listen to your body."

Barbara has already raised more than £600 towards her Altrincham 10k but hopes to reach £1,000 in total.

The fundraising team at St Ann's Hospice are beyond grateful for the support and dedication Barbara has given to the hospice over the years.

Lucy Leeming, community fundraising manager, said: “The awareness Barbara has raised across Greater Manchester for the importance and vitality of St Ann’s Hospice has undeniably helped raise funds and awareness for our charity.  

“Her passion and dedication towards our charity shines through in everything she does for us, we’re so grateful to have her support.

"We are so appreciative of all the fundraising Barbara and her family commit to doing so that we can continue to support those in the community.” 

To sponsor Barbara visit www.justgiving.com/page/barbara-thackray2023