Friends and family of a much-loved young man who died while taking part in last year's Norwich half marathon are running this year's event in his memory and for charity.

Phillip Goillau, 25, of Dereham, who was a trainee teacher at Notre Dame High School in Norwich, died on November 27 last year from sudden adult death syndrome.

About 3,000 runners are taking part in the 28th Norwich half marathon, which starts at 11am on Sunday, November 25, at Norfolk Showground in Costessey.

Mr Goillau's girlfriend Gina Steggall will be among those taking part, and her mother Wendy Steggall said: 'Gina, her brothers, Phil's brother James, and several close friends are all running in Phil's memory.

'They are continuing Phil's goal to raise money for the Variety Club children's charity, which is dedicated to improving the lives of children who are disabled or disadvantaged.

'Phil and his friend Mike Newham were in training to run 12 marathons in 12 months to raise money for a minibus for the charity in memory of their friend Jack Stovold, who died whilst they were at Coventry University together.

'Mike is now continuing the challenge on his own to raise enough for a minibus in Phil's memory too.'

Mrs Steggall's son Tom and a few other friends are also running the half marathon in aid of CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young), which offers support for families who have been affected by sudden adult/child death and carry out research into it.

The Norfolk half marathon was first staged in 1985 by the Duke Street Running Club, and was originally based in the centre of Norwich, before it moved to the showground in 1993.

The race follows a fast rural two-lap route through the parishes of Easton, Honingham, Colton, Marlingford and the grounds of Easton College. All public roads are closed to through traffic while the race is in progress.

The ARR Gold Grade event has become well-known over the years for fast times with prizes worth over �6,000 for the fleet of foot, chip timing, one of the best medals around and a decent goody bag for every finisher.

For more information on Cry visit http://www.c-r-y.org.uk or to donate

www.virginmoneygiving.com/TomSteggall

For more on the marathon challenge visit http://www.justgiving.com/Variety-Club-Marathons-Challenge

Are you taking part in a charity event in a loved one's memory? Email reporter David Bale at david.bale2@archant.co.uk