A runner who lost her aunt and cousin to cancer within weeks of each other is set to raise thousands of pounds for research into the disease by taking part in the London marathon.

Katherine Langebrink, 27, of Clover Hill, Skipton, was devastated last summer when her aunt Mona Franklin, 70, and cousin Sue Cutts, 50, both of Skipton, died within three weeks of each other. The pair had battled the disease for two years after being diagnosed with breast and ovarian cancer within one month of each other.

Despite treatment at Airedale Hospital in Steeton, the cancer spread and they both died. Doctors established a strong genetic link which other family members are now being tested for.

"It was a massive shock for everyone," said Katherine, pictured. "It was a pretty horrendous time. You see statistics saying that cancer affects one in three people, but when something like this happens to a family you realise that it really is one in three.

"I am originally from South Africa and moved here ten years ago and lived with my cousin. Because she was a bit older than me, she was like a second mum."

Katherine, who has done a marathon in South Africa, also fears that with the hereditary link, she may be affected one day as well.

Thanks to friends, family and work colleagues, she hopes to raise £2,000. Anyone would like to sponsor her can call her on 07710 398829.