A BERE Alston mother will be tying up her laces and setting off to run the Plymouth Half Marathon for premature and sick babies this April.

Jade Alford will be running the half marathon to raise money for Bliss, the special care baby charity, which supported her when her son was born prematurely.

After Jade unexpectedly went into labour, Ethan was born prematurely at 26 weeks gestation — 14 weeks early.

Ethan was initially unable to breathe without ventilation and became seriously ill, requiring surgery to save his life.

During this emotional and stressful time, Jade and her husband Simon found the support Bliss provided invaluable.

She regularly turned to Bliss's website and family services helpline for advice and explanations of medical terms.

Jade is a member of Bliss's online community and uses her experience to offer support to families in similar situations.

Jade said: 'Having Ethan so early was such a traumatic experience, but Bliss's support helped me along the way so I wanted to be able to give something back and help them support other parents like me.

'My husband and I chose a half marathon as we wanted something that would really push and challenge us and we are really enjoying the training and fundraising.'

After a difficult start to life, Ethan has gone from strength to strength and is now a happy and healthy five-year-old.

He has recently started school and is settling in well with his classmates.

Jade took up running as a pastime and as a way of getting fitter.

She then decided to set herself the challenge of getting fit enough to complete Plymouth Half Marathon.

To help with her training, she joined the Bere Alston Trekkers (BATS) running club, where the runners and their leader, Dotty, have encouraged Jade and helped her push on with her training. Simon took up running to help support her and they recently completed a ten-mile run together.

Chief executive of Bliss Caroline Davey said: 'I wish Jade the best of luck taking on this incredible challenge for Bliss.

'Her efforts, and those of fundraisers like her, are raising money and awareness for special care babies.

'The vital funds they raise will help us improve the lives of babies throughout the UK.'

Jade is looking to raise at least £200 and she has already raised more than £100 thanks to generous donations from friends and family, including her father-in-law and former mayor of Hatherleigh, Graham Alford.

On March 3, Jade plans to hold a fundraising quiz night at the Ordulph Arms in Tavistock, where she works as a bar manager.

To find out more about Jade's story, or to sponsor her, visit http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/alfordsrun">www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/alfordsrun