A Watford broadcaster is running the London Marathon in memory of his friend and colleague Russell Hargreaves.

BBC World Service journalist Ian Williams will don the coral pink jersey of bereavement charity Winston’s Wish when he takes part in the race in the capital on Sunday, April 21. 

He is raising money for the children’s and young people’s grief charity in memory of his friend and colleague Russell, who died last year aged 45.

Borehamwood Times: TalkSPORT commentator Russell Hargreaves died last year aged 45.TalkSPORT commentator Russell Hargreaves died last year aged 45. (Image: Rachel Hargreaves)

The TalkSPORT radio station, where Russell had been a commentator for more than 10 years, paid tribute to the “much loved friend and colleague” when it announced his passing on December 6.

Russell was known for his rugby union commentary and various clubs, including Arsenal and Harlequins, paid their respects when the news broke last year.

Ian, who lives in North Watford, now plans to raise money for Winston’s Wish which helps more than 60,000 young people affected by grief each year.

Borehamwood Times: Russell leaves behind his wife and three young children.Russell leaves behind his wife and three young children. (Image: Rachel Hargreaves)

“Russ was a lovely guy, and it is so sad that he leaves behind his wife Rachel and three young children,” the journalist said.

“After speaking to Rachel, I learned that the children were receiving support from Winston’s Wish. It seemed like a no-brainer that I should do my bit to give back.”

The pair met through work and Ian said: “It’s a cliché that everyone says kind things about someone when they pass away, but Russ really was one of the nicest people I’ve ever worked with in the media industry.  

Borehamwood Times: BBC broadcaster Ian Williams is raising money for bereavement charity Winston's Wish in memory of his friend and colleague Russell.BBC broadcaster Ian Williams is raising money for bereavement charity Winston's Wish in memory of his friend and colleague Russell. (Image: Ian Williams)

“Always smiling, he had a fun, silly side that meant people quickly took to him," he added.

“When I talk about Russ’ death with people who did not know him, I often notice that their strongest reaction is not to news of his passing, but rather it is when I mention that he leaves behind such a young family.

"All of the children are 10 or under – and that fact elicits the strongest emotional response from others."

Winston’s Wish, founded in 1992, , provides direct support to grieving young people, as well as giving parents and professionals working in education and healthcare the tools to help them assist affected youngsters.

It says it needs to raise £2.5 million each year in order to continue offering its services free of charges to bereaved families.