A HAMPSHIRE runner is set to tackle a gruelling eight mile obstacle course in memory of her father for a pancreatic cancer charity.

Vicky Smith, from Horton Heath, Eastleigh lost her father to pancreatic cancer in 1991.

Now, on the 25th anniversary of her dad’s death, Victoria is attempting to battle through the Grim Challenge 10k, a muddy running course that puts participants through railway tracks, sand dunes and various hills.

The race takes place in Aldershot this Saturday, with Vicky targeting £480 to help raise awareness for UK charity Pancreatic Cancer Action.

Vicky, 40, said: “I wanted to raise that amount as my father was 48 when he passed away. I was 15 at the time and it was really difficult.

“I don’t think pancreatic cancer gets enough attention, so I’m doing this as much to raise money as I am to raise the profile of one of the most deadly forms of cancer.”

Vicky’s father, Leslie Hunt, pictured, was diagnosed in October 1991 and was given between 3-6 months to live, but died on December 22.

The former plumber from Swaythling was diagnosed with stomach ulcers before it became clear that his problem was much worse.

Vicky, a garden centre worker, said: “It never seems to be that you survive if you are diagnosed with this form.

“The survival rate has barely changed, there are not enough treatment options and it has been chronically underfunded, I want to help change that.

Having started running five years ago, Vicky will be partnered by fellow runner Justine O’toole, from West End.

Only 5 per cent of people diagnosed with the cancer survive beyond five years with surgery currently the only cure.

Ali Stunt, Founder of Pancreatic Cancer Action said: “As a charity, we rely on the generosity of people like Vicky who help us continue our vital work.

“She is taking on such a demanding challenge to raise money so that we can continue research into early diagnosis and raise awareness of pancreatic cancer.”

To donate to Victoria’s cause, you can log on to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Vicky-Smith24.