A WOMAN is to run 1,000km across northern Spain in memory of her dad, who died of a heart attack.

Catherine Lee, 24, from Colchester, is preparing to run the Camino de Santiago in mid-April, in support of the British Heart Foundation.

The challenge will start in southern France, taking Catherine across the Pyrenees and finishing in Santiago de Compestello.

Fitness fanatic Catherine will be running between 20 to 25km a day over the course of two months to complete the distance.

Catherine’s dad, Patrick Lee, died of a heart attack in 1997, aged 53, so Catherine wanted to support the British Heart Foundation.

Catherine said: “Running an extensive distance of 1,000km will push my body in a manner that people suffering from heart disease may not be able to.

“The amazing work the British Heart Foundation does and my own experience of the devastating effects of heart disease has inspired me to take on this challenge for those who aren’t physically able and use my level of health as an opportunity to help others.”

Catherine has started an intensive programme with her personal trainer.

The artist will also be documenting her experience throughout on Twitter and Instragram.

On March 27, Catherine will be hosting an art exhibition at the Peldon Rose Inn, Colchester to help fund her trip. The exhibition will be auctioning donated goods as well as some of Catherine’s own pieces of artwork. Last year, she did the pilgrimage with her mum Sara – but walked.

To sponsor Catherine,visit justgiving.com/Catherine- Lee9. To learn more about Catherine’s challenge and follow her journey, search for Cat Lees Running on Facebook.