A FALMOUTH couple will tackle a marathon feat next month to raise money for Motor Neurone Disease.

Ian and Sam Williams, owners of Cavendish Coffee House in Market Street, are taking on the Athens Marathon in memory of Sam's mum, who died three years ago.

Ian said: “I was surprised but delighted when Sam said she wanted to join me on the last marathon and it felt only right that we use the occasion to raise funds for a very worthwhile charity.

"We have seen first hand the effects of this debilitating disease and want to help fund essential research. It feels particularly special that this is a family affair and we are doing it together in memory of Sam’s mum, Peter’s wife and Joe and Katie’s 'Bet Bet'.

Ian turns 50 in December and has set himself the challenge of completing 50 marathons before his birthday.

Sam will run her first – and she is adamant her last - marathon and the couple will raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Ian added: “I ran my first marathon in London in 1995 and it’s fitting to run my last in Athens on the original course where the messenger ran to deliver news of a victory 2500 years ago.”

Their children Joe and Katie and Sam’s dad Peter will also be in Athens to walk a combined marathon on the day.

They have planned a route visiting as many of the city’s ancient sites as possible and will each walk over 8.5 miles.

Peter, who will reach his 75th birthday just days before the marathon weekend, will also boost the funds via future sales of his book Balls in a Sandwich.

Available in both paperback and e-format, it is a brutally honest account of caring for his wife during those final years.

Those who want to support the family’s marathon feat can donate via www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ian-williams78

The MND Association is the only national charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland dedicated to improve care and support for people affected by MND, fund and promote research, and campaign and raise awareness so the needs of people with MND are addressed by society. Visit www.mndassociation.org