A KIDDERMINSTER woman will take on the Great Birmingham Run to raise vital funds for the Stroke Association in memory of her grandfather.

Hayley Brooks, 28, was inspired to take part in the half marathon on Sunday, October 16, after her grandfather, Sidney Brooks, had a stroke in March 2007.

After his stroke, Sidney lost the use of his right side and spent three months in hospital, before moving into a care. He lived with disability for seven years, before he died in May 2014, at the age of 92.

Hayley said: "My grandfather was a happy go-lucky man, who always looked out for others.

"His stroke changed all of our lives and despite losing the use of his right side, he always had a smile on his face.

"I was extremely close to grandfather so supporting the Stroke Association in his memory means a great deal to me.

"I only took up running in January this year and I am finding my training tough.

"The memory of my grandfather, as well as the knowledge that I am raising funds for other families affected by stroke, is what will get me over the finish line."

Hayley's 13.1 mile route will pass some of Birmingham's most iconic sights, including the Bullring, Cadbury World and Edgbaston Cricket Ground.

Katrin Winstanley, events manager at the Stroke Association, added: "With around 152,000 strokes a year in the UK - that is around one every three and a half minutes - it is vital that we have people who can raise funds for people affected by stroke.

"We are incredibly grateful to Hayley for taking on this challenge. The money will go a long way in helping to support people who are living with the effects of stroke, as well as their families and carers."

To sponsor Hayley, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Hayley-Brooks3.