I was sorry to read that the New Forest Marathon event has been cancelled.

It was first organised by the New Milton Lions Club in conjunction with the New Forest Runners. After a few years, the Lions Club decided to pull out.

The New Forest Marathon Association was formed by local resident, Wilf Bradley.

Several other local well known names joined in, including myself.

I was the event publicity officer from 1986 to 1992. I also found guest race starters including Maria Rice-Mundy.

Maria has been a beauty queen, model, singer, actress and TV game show hostess.

Michael White from Burley designed the 1991 t-shirt.

I used to also find many spot prizes from local shops and organisations; put up posters and so on, often helped by one of my sons, Daniel.

I had to step down, as I became a carer to my father and later a single parent.

Richard F Grant, Bisterne Close, Burley