TWIN sisters Michelle Ford and Stephanie Cole, from Midsomer Norton, are set to take on the 2026 London Marathon in support of Marie Curie.

The intrepid pair will be raising funds in memory of Michelle’s husband, Neil Ford, who died just 72 hours after a terminal diagnosis.

Neil, a devoted husband, father, and ‘Grampy’, was well-known and loved in the local community for his quick wit and warm personality.

He passed away from cancer in September, 2023, aged just 52.

With so little time following his diagnosis, there was no opportunity for specialist end-of-life support.

However, the experience opened Michelle and her sister’s eyes to the vital role charities such as Marie Curie play in providing expert care, guidance, and compassion to people living with terminal illness and their families.

Michelle and Stephanie will run the iconic 26.2-mile race on April 26 as they approach their milestone 50th birthday.

“We wanted to do something positive and give something back,” said Stephanie.

“Even though we did not have the chance to receive support ourselves, we know how much it means to others.

“If we can help another family experience comfort, dignity, and compassion at the hardest time, then every mile will be worth it.”

In support of their fund-raising efforts, the sisters organised a spinathon event at Dragonfly Leisure, where Neil had been a member for decades.

The event was embraced by the local community who helped boost their fund-raising target of £5,000 by £1,050.

Training for the marathon has proved both physically and emotionally challenging, but the sisters say they are more determined than ever to reach the start line ready to carry Neil’s memory with them every step of the way.

“This is about honouring Neil,” Michelle said. “He would be so proud of us.

“We are running for him, and for every family who needs that extra care and support.”

Through their challenge, the twins hope not only to raise vital funds but also to highlight the importance of end-of-life care charities.

Stephanie said: “Running the London Marathon together as twins feels incredibly special.

“We took up running 10 years ago, in our fortieth year, and after nine years of trying through the ballot, finally standing on the start line side by side is a dream we never gave up on.

“As twins, our bond is unbreakable, and running has only strengthened it.

“Training together means we instinctively know when the other needs encouragement, pacing, or simply somebody alongside them.

“Every mile is shared, and that connection gives us strength through this incredible challenge.

“Neil will be at the forefront of our minds on race day.

“He knew how much this meant to us and supported our running every step of the way.

“Now, we are running in his memory and raising money for Marie Curie, which makes this experience even more meaningful.

“When the race gets tough, we will draw strength from each other and from him, motivating one another all the way to the finish.”

Donations can be made online.