A Dovercourt man is preparing to run the Chicago Marathon as a tribute to a one-year-old boy who died of a rare disorder.

Michael Colley, of Oakley Road, Dovercourt, will be running in memory of Samuel Parkins.

Mr Colley said: "I will be running the Chicago Marathon as a tribute to my friends who lost their little boy, aged one, from a rare disorder called Spinal Muscular Atrophy."

Samuel's father, of Felixstowe, will also help raise funds for the Ipswich Children's Hospice, who Mr Colley said "performed wonders" in making Samuel's family and friends comfortable.

Anyone who wants to sponsor Mr Colley for the October 12 marathon should call 07768 834716

Published Monday, August 4, 2003

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