THE daughter of a former Newport GP is taking on a half marathon for the first time in his memory.

Dr Denis Morgan worked at the Richmond Clinic in Caerleon Road, Newport, for 37 years. But, shortly after retiring, he was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis - a chronic condition in which the lung tissue becomes thickened, stiff and scarred.

He died in 2017 aged 69.

Now his daughter, Sarah Messer, is running next weekend's Cardiff Half Marathon to rise money for Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis, which works to improve the quality of life for people with the condition and fund research into a cure.

Mrs Messer, originally from Llangybi but now living in Brackley, Northamptonshire, said: "Little is known about the disease and its causes but what is known is that there is no cure. This is why it is vital that money goes into research in order to maybe one day finding a cure.

"Dad quietly battled for nearly two years but finally the last six months of his life became a struggle. He was the most kind and dignified person in all aspects of his life and he never complained about what he went through.

"Running the half marathon will be a tough challenge for me as I have never run before. However, the messages of support I have received from friends, family and former patients have helped me with my training and will inspire me to complete the half marathon in memory of my father."

For more information to sponsor Mrs Messer visit justgiving.com/fundraising/sarah-messer1