ACTOR Ed Speleers, who plays valet Jimmy Kent in the popular TV series Downton Abbey, is running the London Marathon in April to raise funds for Somerset Cancer Care, on of St Margaret’s Hospice community-based services.

Ed has already seen first-hand the work of one of the charity’s support groups and met staff and patients at St Margaret’s Yeovil hospice.

He said: “I’m thrilled to be able to run for Somerset Cancer Care and I’m really humbled by the great work that is being carried out at the support groups and the hospice.

“I just can't believe how positive the patients and families are. I know they will really inspire me whilst I am running.”

Community clinical volunteer leader at St Margaret’s Kathy Hughes said: “We couldn’t be more delighted to receive this support from such a high profile actor.

“Ed has shown that he really cares about the work we do and clearly recognises the value of the service.

“We’re so very grateful for the effort he’s putting in on our behalf.”

Now celebrating its 25 year anniversary, Somerset Cancer Care groups meet in five different locations across the county.

The service is supported by Macmillan Cancer Support.

For details about Somerset Cancer Care support groups and opening times or to sponsor Ed Speleers, click on the links on this story.