A CHARITY worker has taken on a number of challenges as a way of channelling his grief following the death of his wife.

Tony Thornton, The Salvation Army’s regional manager for homelessness services in the North East, will be attempting to conquer the London Marathon as he continues to raise money to tackle modern slavery.

The 58-year-old, lost his wife Ann-Marie to cancer in December 2017, said: “I don’t particularly like running, so that is a challenge in itself. When I lost my wife, I decided to join a gym, which I’ve never done before, committed to doing some running and I wanted to do something different so I also joined a climbing club. I can now climb quite well – it’s been a huge challenge but it is actually helping me build up my strength for the marathon.”

He has already taken part in a 10K race in his hometown of Darlington and is continuing to work hard towards his goal of 26.2 miles. He said: “I found the 10K okay but towards the end it was quite a struggle. When I crossed the line I thought, ‘Great! I’ve done six-and-a-bit miles but the London Marathon’s another 20 miles on top of that!’”

To sponsor Mr Thornton visit here