A HAMPSHIRE firefighter, who completed 20 marathons in a year as an emotional tribute to his late wife, will open Andover Foodbank’s 10k Lake Run.

Steve Holder will set runners off during the second edition of the annual race, due to take place on Sunday, September 17.

The Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service firefighter was chosen to open the race after his amazing charity challenge in 2016.

The then 44-year-old ran 20 marathons across the UK, US and Europe to symbolise the 20 years of marriage to his wife Sharon, who died from cancer in 2015.

Mr Holder also raised more than £10,000 in the process, which was shared between The Fire Fighters Charity, The Loss Foundation and Cancer Research UK.

Talking about opening this year’s Lake Run, which he will also take part in, Steve said: “I’m honoured to come along and open and run in the race.”

Andover Foodbank’s Lake Run returns this year after a hugely successful debut in 2016.

This year, there will be three races, including an improved 10k run around both Charlton and Anton lakes.

As well as the main course, there will be a 5k and a fun run.

The Andover Advertiser will also lend its support to the event again this year with its sponsorship of the Advertiser Fittest Company Cup.

The team event will see groups of six to 10 runners from local companies battling out to for the trophy, which was won last year by Test Valley Borough Council.

The winner of the cup will be based on the time of the company’s fourth-place finisher.

Names of runners can be finalised nearer the event but to guarantee starting positions and race numbers for your company runners register as soon as possible.

Last year over £6,000 was raised to support the work of the foodbank.

However this year the charity is hoping to beat last year’s effort, and raise more than £10,000.

Michael Valenzia, Andover Foodbank Committee member, said: “The Andover Lake Run is our highest profile fund raising event and last year it was really well supported by the town with over 350 runners.

“Andover Foodbank helps local individuals and families in crisis and incredibly helped more than 4,500 people in 2016.”

For more information please visit www.andover10klakerun.co.uk.