AN MP is preparing for a literal run up to the General Election.

Weaver Vale MP will run the London Marathon for the fourth time on April 26.

He will take part in the 26-mile run in aid of St Luke's Hospice in mid Cheshire, Halton Haven Hospice in Runcorn, and the Army Benevolent Charity, which works throughout the area.

He said: "Even with an election coming up, I'm not going to put politics before supporting the local charities that mean so much to me."

He added: "These are three really special local charities.

"Both St Luke's and Halton Haven provide amazing end of life care, while the Army Benevolent Charity give support to those who have sacrificed so much to protect our freedoms and security at home.

"I would encourage anyone who has a bit of loose change in their pockets to donate to these important charities, or to support my marathon via my Just Giving page."

Claire Langston, director of income generation at St Luke’s Hospice, said: "We’re incredibly grateful that Mr Evans has chosen to support St Luke’s (Cheshire) Hospice as more than £7,500 a day is needed for St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice to open its doors and the majority of that money is found through donations.

"We know how gruelling a marathon can be, and the team at St Luke’s will certainly be cheering him on.”

To sponsor Graham visit justgiving.com/teams/GrahamEvans15.