Money raised will go to Cancer Research UK and Weston Park Cancer Charity after Stefan recently lost his battle with cancer, aged 46.

Sue Gilroy, women's wheelchair table tennis Commonwealth gold medallist in 2006, organised the event along with staff from the English Institute of Sport in Attercliffe, where the marathon will take place.

Organisers say anyone who has raised sponsorship is welcome to take part in the event which will see table tennis played for 24-hours non-stop.

Sue, a teacher from Barnsley, said: "When Stefan was diagnosed with cancer he was told that he couldn't receive treatment on the NHS, so we came up with this idea collectively to help raise money towards private treatment. Unfortunately, his condition quickly deteriorated and he died in August.

"We wanted to still go ahead with the fundraiser as not only is it a chance to get people involved in table tennis, it is also honouring Stefan's memory through a sport that was a huge part of his life.

"Stefan helped out a great deal at Shawlands Primary School in Barnsley where I teach, so some of the children will be coming down on the day to get involved.

"All people need to do if they want to take part is raise some sponsorship, or they can simply come down to show some moral support."

Stefan competed in more than 50 international table tennis events, including four European Championships, a World Championship and the Paralympic Games in both Sydney and Athens.

His career included 13 bronze, 17 silver and 13 gold medals in singles and team events.

Anyone is welcome. It runs until 9am tomorrow.





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