The funeral of a keen runner and much-loved fundraiser who last week lost her battle with cancer takes place next week near Sittingbourne.

Joleen Swan, 37, a mum and gran from Gillingham, was diagnosed with cervical cancer three times in seven years.

She raised £36,000 for Cancer Research by completing a marathon while undergoing treatment.

But on Friday, December 2, Medway runners who dedicated a half-marathon to Joleen were given the devastating news she had passed away, just as they were about to set off.

Run leader Richie Mills made the heartbreaking announcement half an hour before they set off from The Strand.

Joleen’s parents Colin and Jill and sisters Lauren and Carly went along to show their appreciation to those who were raising money for The Wisdom Hospice.

Mr Mills, from Rainham, said: “It was so emotional. Some were doing a half-marathon for the first time and it became a rally cry. After all she went though, they said let’s do this for Joleen.”

The 36-year-old Tesco manager said they knew Joleen was very ill and had already decided to dedicate the run to her, with medals inscribed with her name and T-shirts with her picture.

He said: “She was very much part of the club. While she had not run since the spring, she still liked to get involved.”

They have raised more than £1,500 which will be split between The Wisdom Hopsice and the Hospice in the Weald in Tunbridge Wells, where she died.

Her sister Lauren Swan, 28 of Rochester, said: “It was important for us to be here. If she had been well enough she would have been there too. Despite being ill, Joleen always took care of her appearance. She looked gorgeous. She just loved running.”

After a hysterectomy, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, Joleen was given the news the cancer had returned and it was incurable.

Joleen, of Tovey Square, was hoping to put off more medication until after her wedding to partner Martin Lord in August but the diagnosis meant she had to bring it forward.

When her hair started to fall out Lauren raised an incredible £5,600 for hair replacement treatment in time for the ceremony in Malta.

Joleen, mum to Chloe, 18, and grandmother to Elsie, one, raised £36,000 for Cancer Research by completing the London Marathon in 2014.

Lauren of Summerson Close, said: “She adored both of them and gave them 110%. She knew she might not have long with them.”

Joleen’s funeral is at 4pm at the Garden of England Cemetery, Bobbing next Tuesday. Floral tributes, family only. Donations to the Hospice in the Weald.