A doctor is planning to fight breast cancer by swapping his stethoscope for a pair of trainers and running the London Marathon.

Eastern Daily Press: Attleborough GP, Doctor Simon Vavasour, preparing to run the London Marathon to raise funds for breast cancer research. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYAttleborough GP, Doctor Simon Vavasour, preparing to run the London Marathon to raise funds for breast cancer research. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2016)

Attleborough Surgery GP Dr Simon Vavasour, 49, is taking part in the April 24 race to raise money for research into the disease, which he has seen the effects of first-hand.

Dr Vavasour, who lives in Norwich, said: 'My sister has been diagnosed with breast cancer and a friend of mine has been diagnosed with it as well.

'I've also seen quite a few breast cancer patients lately, so it struck a chord and I decided to sign up.'

Dr Vavasour said he had seen the difference research into the disease had made over the course of his career.

He said: 'Research is amazingly important when you look at the advances that have been made over the past 20 years.

'Breast cancer used to be a terminal diagnosis for a lot of people, but patients' life expectancy has got a lot better now due to improved treatment.

'They do constantly need funding to keep the research going.'

This will be the second time Dr Vavasour has taken part in the marathon, which draws thousands of people to the capital each year.

'I did one 18 years ago,' he said. 'I've had a massive break without very much running in between.'

Dr Vavasour finished his first marathon in 4:20:00, but he said he wouldn't try to break any records this time around.

He said: 'Back then, I had no idea what I was letting myself in for.

'I'm hoping to enjoy it a little more this time, and I'll just be concentrating on getting around.

Dr Vavasour said friends and his four children would be at the marathon to cheer him on, and after finishing he planned to celebrate with 'a beer and a massage'.

He is aiming to raise more than £2,000 for research charity Breast Cancer Now,

The fundraising is already well on the way thanks to cake sales, donations from friends and family, and a lottery at the Station Road surgery where visitors can try to predict his finishing time.

Donations can also be made online at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SimonVavasour.