A BLACKBURN firefighter is preparing to run a half marathon in full firefighting gear to raise money for a charity which helped his dying sister.

Naveed Sharif will take part in the Great North Run from Newcastle to South Shields on September 26 to raise cash for Cancer Research UK.

Naveed's sister Sameena died of a brain tumour last August, aged 18, after battling the condition for three years.

She was diagnosed with the tumour at the age of 15, but after undergoing radiotherapy was told that it had shrunk and that she would be able to lead a normal life. But one year on, a routine scan showed the tumour had returned and was growing rapidly.

Before Sameena could have chemotherapy she slipped into a coma and died in hospital at Blackpool.

Before her death she was given invaluable support from the charity.

Naveed, 23, of Queen's Road, Blackburn, is Lancashire Fire Service's community outreach development officer.

He said that once he mentioned to sponsors he would run in full uniform, the offers of support rolled in.

He added: "The charity was fantastic with my sister and I see this as giving something back and getting fit at the same time. I might have to be brought back in an ambulance, but I'll definitely make it."

Naveed, who also works as a lifeguard and swimming instructor, thanked his training partners and all those who had sponsored him at Lancashire Fire Service and at Waves swimming pool in Blackburn.

He has already collected £500 towards the £1,000 he hopes to raise.

To help him reach his target, call 01772 866791.