A GRAPHIC designer is to take part in a 153-mile ultra marathon in tribute to a well- known musician.

Scott Cross, 29, of Albert Street, Padiham, is drawing up final plans for a cross country challenge in memory of Martin Simm who was a member of the band Pretend Girlfriend and his sister’s former partner.

Mr Simm, who was also from Padiham, died in October aged 40, having been diagnosed with a rare form of mouth and neck cancer three years earlier.

The Hyndburn Council worker was best known as the lead vocalist of indie band Pretend Girlfriend, which had a big following throughout East Lancashire.

The band supported acts like The Fall and played at high profile venues such as The Cavern in Liverpool.

Mr Simm and Mr Cross used to run together before he became ill and even took part in a couple of local road races.

Mr Cross has set Monday, April 10, as the day he will begin a 153-mile run from Bridlington on the East coast to Lytham St Annes.

He hopes to complete the challenge in just five days and raise money for Rosemere Cancer Foundation’s 20 Years Anniversary Appeal.

Mr Simm was also Mr Cross' sister Kirsten’s partner and although the couple had separated, they were still good friends, sharing the upbringing of their sons Liam, now 17, and 13-year-old Oliver.

Mr Cross said: “Martin fought a courageous battle with cancer.

“He was a good friend and meant a lot to the whole family.

“He was also a keen runner and we both took part in the Burnley 10K.

“He beat me on both occasions so this challenge seems a particularly fitting way to pay tribute to him.

“Martin regularly visited Rosemere Cancer Centre early on in his battle.”

Scott is hoping to raise around £1,000 via justgiving.com/fundraising/ScottCrossCountry.