Sponsored runners taking part in the Great North Run to raise funds for a charity inspired by a courageous teenager will be trained by ironman Gary McKee.

John Maxwell and son Devon will take part in the half marathon to raise money for his daughter’s charity – Danica’s Dream Fund.

Mr Maxwell of Egremont secured five places in the event and they were snapped up in a week.

Danica passed away in 2010 and her final wish was to help other sufferers of cancer and Mr Maxwell has been campaigning for the cause ever since.

Mr Maxwell has called in an experienced marathon runner, who this year competed in the same run in aid of Danica’s Dream Fund to help with the training for the epic challenge.

Mr McKee of Cleator Moor is no stranger to taking gruelling challenges.

Just under two years ago he took on a 100-marathon endurance challenge and competed in the 2018 Great North Run in aid of Danica’s Dream Fund.

Mr McKee said: “I’ve coached rugby teams before, I know how to motivate people and get the most out of folk, but in running I know how it works for me.”

Mr McKee’s 100 marathons challenge in April 2017 generated £120,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

His son, Beau, has since followed in his footsteps, starting his own endurance test to raise funds for Macmillan. He took on the challenge of running at least three miles every day during 2018, collecting £23,629.

Shameem Arnold is also helping out as she has offered John free admission to her Moky Fit classes. John said: “She’s always wanted to do something for Danica’s charity.”

Mr McKee may not need to use his skills as a motivator, Mr Maxwell said that he is driven: “I promised Danica that I would do the wing walk, I said, I’ll do that for you. That will give me the first push to do the wing walk.”

Mr McKee and son Beau have won awards for their charity work. Mr McKee was granted Freedom of the Borough by Copeland council and Beau was honoured at the West Cumbria Community Heroes Awards.