THE nephew of popular Stourbridge solicitor Martyn Morgan is running five half marathons in five days to raise vital funds for charity in his memory.

Jacq Bennett, 19, was inspired to fundraise for the Stroke Association after his uncle – a director of Black Country law firm Talbots – passed away in December.

The Aston University student, who studies mathematics and economics, will complete his first race from his university to Talbots’ Kidderminster branch on Monday, August 29.

His challenge will culminate in his fifth half marathon on Friday, September 2, when he’ll run to the branch from Worcester Cathedral.

Jacq, of Kidderminster, said: “Martyn was an amazing uncle and he meant a lot to me.

“He helped me through difficult times and used to take me to Aston Villa matches every season from an early age.

“He was a runner, having run marathons globally, so it feels right to dedicate this challenge to him.

“I want to raise funds for the Stroke Association in his name, to help prevent strokes, as well as helping to fund care for people affected by stroke.

“The training so far has been a challenge in itself. It’s the first time I’ve done anything like this, other than cross country running at school.

“I’ve always wanted to run marathons and half marathons and after finishing my first year of university, I thought the summer break would be the ideal time to complete the challenge."

Martyn, who was born and bred in Stourbridge, qualified as a solicitor in 1977 and took over at Talbots Solicitors, as it was then known, in 1991.

He was renowned for his sense of humour, practical jokes and his love of Aston Villa, while also had an interest in fitness, completing both the London and New York marathons.

Georgina Lawrence, community and events fundraiser at the Stroke Association, added: “Jacq is truly going the extra mile for the Stroke Association.

“Without the efforts of fundraisers like Jacq, we wouldn’t be able to support the 120,000 people in the West Midlands who are currently living with the devastating effects of stroke, as well as their families and carers.

“We’re very grateful to him for his support and wish him the very best of luck with his challenge.”

To sponsor Jacq, visit mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/jacqbennett12345.