IT’S marathon season and a mother and daughter duo from Sale will be pounding the roads to raise money for a cause (very) close to home.

Sue Goddard, 58, and daughter Laura, 25, from Litherland Road, will be embarking on the Wilmslow Half Marathon, on April 3, and Manchester Marathon, on April 10, respectively.

They signed up for the runs to raise money for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association, after being inspired by their neighbour John Boulton.

John was diagnosed with the terminal illness in July 2012 at the age of 73 and the progressive disease has left him confined to a wheelchair and unable to talk. He now uses a whiteboard and pen to communicate.

Sue and Laura described John as the ‘life and soul’ of Litherland Road and jumped at the chance to raise money for the charity that has provided great support John and his wife Anne over the past few years.

Laura said: “Running the Manchester Marathon is a huge challenge for me as I have never completed a marathon before. I am nervous about the race but my mum and I have done a lot of training together, which has made the long runs more enjoyable.

“Raising money to help John and other MND sufferers in Manchester has been a big inspiration. It is also an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about the condition.

“When the run gets difficult I will have John in my thoughts to push me to that finish line.”

The team have raised more than £2,000 so far for the MND Association.

“The funds raised will help local MND sufferers,” said John. “For example, it can be put towards vital specialist equipment, fund group meetings and, most importantly, help with research to find a cure.”

To make a donation, visit justgiving.com/LauraandSue/.