Ben is raising money for a number of charities

A Preston man diagnosed with terminal bowel cancer is preparing to run six marathons in six months.

Ben Ashworth, who lives in the Broadgate area of the city, was diagnosed with cancer two years ago – when his wife was expecting their third child.

Now Ben, 35, is training to run a series of marathons to raise money for several cancer charities.

His races include Blackpool today, Windermere in May, Wakefield, Northampton, the Isle of Man and finishing with the Berlin marathon in September.

Finished the Blackpool Marathon in around 5hrs30- forgot to stop my watch. Ran all the way no stopping. 1 down 5 to go #bensbowelmovements

— Ben Ashworth (@ChemoDadRuns) April 6, 2014

Ben said: “It has always been a dream of mine to run a marathon, before I became ill two years ago it’s what I was training for. When I was told I had bowel cancer I never thought I would be able to do this.

“I’m really grateful to be able to realise this dream, and really want to raise money for the charities I believe in.”

Ben before his diagnosis with bowel cancer

He is currently receiving treatment at the Rosemere Cancer Treatment centre in Preston.

His family, including sister Grace, are all supporting him on his challenge.

Grace said: “Ben is a walking inspiration to the whole family. A year ago we were told he was looking at six to 12 months as a prognosis. His current chemotherapy is working to stop the cancer from spreading, but can’t act as a cure.”

Ben has already raised £2,000 and he hopes to hit his £10,000 target by September.

Anyone can donate and support Ben by visiting his fundraising page.

You can also follow Ben on Twitter to get updates on his progress.