A widow whose husband died just a month after their wedding will be the guest of honour at Race for Life in Croydon.

Amy Peacock will mark her first wedding anniversary by heading up a team on Sunday (July 12) at Lloyd Park.

Before the run starts Mrs Peacock will take to the stage with teammates, her sister-in-law Hannah Peacock and best friend Angela Crowley, to share their story with the other participants.

Her husband Ross was diagnosed with stomach cancer in May 2014 just weeks before the couple, who had been together for nine years, were due to wed.

The wedding went ahead but he died just a month later on June 30 last year, aged 32.

Ms Peacock said: "Losing Ross so soon after the wedding was devastating.

"Ross made me promise I’d live life to the full and I’m trying to.

"Ross’s parents had me round for a meal on our wedding anniversary so I could spend the day in a positive way."

Following his death Mrs Peacock has been fundraising for cancer charities raising more than £5,200 in memory of the former Riddlesdown High School pupil.

Your Local Guardian:
Amy Peacock (centre) is ready to take on the run with her sister-in-law Hannah Peacock and friend Angela Crowley. Picture by Southern News and Pictures

She hopes to add to this by taking part in Race for Life.

The 30-year-old said: "This is the first event like this I have ever done.

"I think Ross would find it quite funny that we’re doing Race for Life as none of us are very sporty.

"I’m sure he would be incredibly supportive and I hope that we make him proud.

"I’m urging the brave ladies of Croydon to join us at Race for Life and help beat cancer sooner."

To support Ms Peacock and her team visit www.justgiving.com/teams/RossPeacock