A year after the tragic death of his teenage sister, Liam Richards is preparing to complete a marathon in her memory.

Eastern Daily Press: Gina Holmes. Picture: SUBMITTEDGina Holmes. Picture: SUBMITTED (Image: Archant)

Mr Richards has been inspired to take up the challenge to pay tribute to Gina Holmes who died from a brain inflammation just days after enjoying her school prom.

The 16-year-old from Sheringham suffered a viral infection which spiralled into a rare medical condition - meningoencephalitis.

Now Mr Richards, 22, is preparing to pound the streets of Palma on the Spanish island of Mallorca to help others suffering the same illness.

'I have chosen to support the Encephalitis Society because they work to help support those who have suffered with the disease that sadly took my sister's life,' explained Mr Richards.

'Helping support their work is something I am passionate about. My aim was to raise 1,000 Euros, but I have already surpassed that and my new target is to try reach 2,000 Euros.'

He added: 'I remember Gina as being a genuine person. She was always very caring and loving, especially to her friends and family and always put others before herself. She was very unique and what stood out most about her was the fact she would just be herself no matter what anybody else thought.'

A bar supervisor at the coastal resort of Magaluf, Mr Richards moved to Mallorca three years ago where he now lives permanently.

He is currently clocking up the miles in preparation for the marathon getting underway on October 16.

Mr Richards, who will be running his first marathon, is aiming to complete the distance in under four hours.

Colleagues at Pirates Beach Bar held a special night for him last month to mark the first anniversary of Gina's death and generously donated to his fundraising appeal.

Anyone wishing to sponsor Mr Richards should visit www.justgiving.com/liamsmemorialmarathon