Eight people are set to take part in the Virgin London Marathon to raise much needed funds for The Norfolk Hospice, Tapping House today.

The runners will take on the 26.2 mile stretch at the capital's major annual event.

The hospice which is in Snettisham, cares for over 300 people who require palliative care a month.

Richard Dickson, 43, from King's Lynn said: 'I ran the GEAR 10k last year for the hospice and raised £750. I chose to support the hospice again and run the Marathon.

My understanding is that the hospice does not receive much help from the government.

'By supporting a local charity I know that the money is going to go where it's meant to. My sponsorship is going well, it is currently £1850, but hopefully I should be able to get to £2500 as a I still have a few supporters to ask.'

The Norfolk Hospice, Tapping House, has been providing palliative care to people with cancer, neurological and other life-limiting conditions since 1984.

The care that is provided enables patients to live life to the full for whatever time is left.

Accountant Nick Blake, 29, grew up in King's Lynn but now lives in London.

He said: 'I chose to run for Tapping House because I think it is a good charity. Also a family friend is a very keen supporter of the hospice and recommended it.'

Mr Blake is also running with friend Beth Taylor, 27, who is an accountant at the Arsenal Football Club.

She said: 'We always said we would do it together. I chose the hospice as Nick did.'

The event was first took place on 29 March 1981 and has been held in the spring of every year since.

Over 35,000 people take place in the capital's long distance race every year.

Derek Harvey, 59, from North Wootton has ran the marathon twice before.

He said: 'I have supported the hospice for many years and I am always up for a challenge.'

David Daly, Tom Rivett, Kevin Smith and Ros Ponder are the other four running for the hospice.

The Norfolk Hospice, Tapping House fundraising manager Jackie Cameron said:

'It is because of the dedication and support of the runners and others like them that the hospice is able to provide its service free of charge.

'The hospice receives under 13% funding from the NHS; the rest of the funding comes from the supporting public.'

The Norfolk Hospice, Tapping House is celebrating 30 years of hospice care this year and will also be moving to new premises in Hillington.