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Karl Hick (uk.linkedin.com/pub/karl-hick/8/570/7a), the chief executive of local housebuilder and developer Larkfleet Group (www.larkfleetgroup.co.uk), is tackling the Virgin Money London Marathon on Sunday 13 April with his eldest son Charlie, to raise money for The Willow Foundation.

The Willow Foundation offers ‘special days’ for 16 to 40 year olds with serious or life-threatening illnesses. The special days – which can be anything from just a quiet holiday to experiences such as balloon flights and car racing – aim to help these young adults escape the pressures of their daily routine and share quality time with family or friends.

Karl said, “I am running the marathon to support the fantastic work the Willow Foundation does that makes a difference to so many lives.

“Every single penny Charlie and I raise will contribute to special days out for seriously ill young adults throughout the UK.”

Both Karl (http://www.justgiving.com/karl-hick1) and Charlie (http://www.justgiving.com/charlie-hick) have an online donation page at www.justgiving.com where people can support their marathon endeavors and help them reach their fundraising goals.

Karl has always had an interest in running and pursued athletics from a young age. Whilst at university he obtained national honours and ran for numerous organisations at home and abroad.

One of the reasons Karl has decided to participate in the marathon next month is to honour a close friend, John Platt, who sadly passed away last year. John had always encouraged Karl to take up running again since retiring from competitive athletics.

Karl added, “My efforts are also in memory of John, who was so supportive of my running and I am proud and thankful to Charlie for joining me in this challenge.”

Karl has been training four times a week as well as maintaining his busy role as CEO of the Larkfleet Group.

To supplement his preparation, Karl is taking part in two half marathons in the run up to April 13.

The Virgin Money London Marathon will not be the end of Karl and Charlie’s running efforts. Both will also tackle the ‘Tri for Life’ triathlon at Woburn Abbey on 7 September.

The Willow Foundation is the only UK charity supporting seriously ill 16 to 40 year olds by providing unique and positive special days. It is totally reliant on the generosity of individuals, companies, trusts and foundations to fund its work.

The charity was founded by former Arsenal goalkeeper and TV presenter, Bob Wilson and his wife Megs, as a lasting memorial to their daughter, Anna, who died of cancer aged 31.