An inspirational marathon runner from Preston has died after a long fight with bowel cancer.

Ben Ashworth, from Broadgate, has passed away aged 38 with his family around him.

His wife Louise posted on the Ben’s Bowel Movements Facebook page to the thousands of people who have followed Ben’s battle with the disease.

A statement from Louise and his daughters posted on Sunday (2 July) morning:

“Dear friends who have followed Ben and our family on our Cancer Adventure. Thank you for all your support and encouragement.

“This is the hardest post to write. Ben found peace early this morning. With myself and his mum holding his hand, he drifted away to meet our Heavenly Father.

“We are heartbroken, but we are also in awe of the time we have been blessed with. How he has defied the odds. The way he won every race. We are grateful this wasn’t a marathon and he his last days were spent surrounded by those he loves and we were able to keep him at home.

“We would appreciate your words on this page. Unfortunately we won’t be able to respond to any direct messages.

“I can assure everyone that myself and our beautiful girls are being well looked after.
In love, Louise and family. Xxx”

Read more: Watch as Ben and family speak about cancer battle

The Facebook page has been inundated with comments, prayers and memories of Ben from all of those who knew him.

Ben after being diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2013 decided to use his cancer battle to raise awareness of the disease.

Read more: ‘A man of positivity’ – tributes pour in for Ben Ashworth

He ran marathons, appeared on national television and brought Preston together for fun runs all to raise money and awareness of beating bowel cancer.

You can donate in Ben’s memory via his fundraising page.

A petition has been launched calling for a Ben Ashworth Way to be made on a section of the Guild Wheel – a route Ben loved to run. Blog Preston is backing the petition.

Did you know Ben? You can leave your tributes in the comments below