A father-of-three from Kesgrave is running the London Marathon on Sunday in memory of a friend and colleague who died of a cardiomyopathy related heart attack.

Neil Frost, 38, of Hares Close in Grange farm, has already raised more than £3.000 for Cardiomyopathy UK inspired by the sudden death of his workmate.

Neil said he was not a runner until May last year, saying he has gone ‘from the couch to a marathon’ in just ten months.

“I worked for Border Force in Felixstowe,” he said.

“I got a call one day saying my friend wasn’t turning up for work so contacted his dad and found out he has died of a sudden heart attack.

“He was only 44 and had three young children.

“Until my friend died I didn’t know cardiomyopathy existed.

“For me, this marathon is about raising awareness of the disease.

“We have this condition which is the biggest medical reason for men under 35 dying in the UK and people don’t know about it.

“If it helps save just one person’s life it will be worth it.”

Neil has been increasing the distance he runs each week to prepare for the gruelling 26 miles and 385 yards on Sunday.

He had planned to take on the run alongside his partner Hayley but she suffered a torn calf muscle so is having to sit it out.

“I am not a runner,” said Neil.

“Ten months ago my partner did the 10k obstacle race and I happily watched her.

“After that I decided to go running myself but couldn’t run a mile without stopping.

“I have gone from a non-runner to a marathon runner in that short space of time.

“It has been an interesting journey.

“I am as prepared as I can be for the run but know deep down this is going to be one heck of a struggle.

“The furthest I have run in one go is 18.5 miles but they say you shouldn’t run any further than that to prepare for a marathon.

“I am incredibly excited to take part in the marathon.

“I feel very nervous but the money we have raised spurs me on.

“The thing I keep asking myself though is why didn’t I do this 15 years ago - I used to be really fit.”

For more on Neil’s story and to donate to his marathon attempt see here.

Cardiomyopathy UK is hosting an information day ay the Novotel in Ipswich on Saturday.

For more information see here.