When a dad died after completing the Brentwood Half Marathon last year his family and friends helped to raise �80,000 for charity in his memory – and one year on they plan to raise even more for the same good cause.

Andrew Corbett, 41, of Park Avenue, Hutton, died from an asthma-related acute heart attack after crossing the finishing line of the race in March last year.

He left behind wife Tessa and children Natasha, nine, and Jonny, six.

After he died his family set up an internet fundraising page in aid of the Little Havens Hospice, asking for donations to be made in his memory.

Within two days the page had raised more than �40,000 for the charity and to date has raised �80,000.

Next month, the inaugural Baton of Life 5k Fun Run will be held in London’s Hyde Park in Andrew’s memory with the hope of raising money for the Thundersley-based hospice.

Joe Corbett, one of Andrew’s brothers, said: “We genuinely believe Andrew died without any regrets, doing what he loved, competing against himself.

“We wanted something positive to come from this tragic loss, and I can’t think of a more deserving cause.

“We have been stunned by the generosity of his friends and colleagues – typical of Andrew, modest but extraordinary”.

The company Andrew worked for, Mitsubishi UFJ Securities International (MUSI), is sponsoring the event.

Trent Hagland, Andrew’s manager and friend, said: “The team at MUSI misses Andrew every day and we are very proud to support this fantastic event in his memory.”

Joe added: “We are looking forward to this event, as a chance to get together and do something positive in Andrew’s memory.

“We hope to see as many participants there as possible, as we know Andrew meant a lot to many people.”

The race is taking place on Wednesday, April 25, and entry costs �20.

The route is suitable for running, jogging, or walking, and fancy dress costumes are encouraged.

To find out more information about the Baton of Life, contact Trisha Snow on 01702 220354, email tsnow@havenshospices.org.uk, or you can find out more and register online by visiting www.havenshospices.org.uk/baton.