Lilian Turner, widow of actor John Turner, will take on the Oxford Half Marathon on Sunday 12 October to raise vital funds for Sobell House Hospice in Oxfordshire.
John, also known professionally as Jonn Benfield, was best known for portraying DCS Michael Kernan in the acclaimed television drama Prime Suspect. He died in July 2020 at Sobell House, where he received compassionate end-of-life care during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Now, at the age of 69 and having never run before, Lilian is preparing to complete the 13.1-mile challenge in his memory. She will be joined on the day by her great-niece, Mila Lewis.
Lilian said: “Sobell House provided John and our family with exceptional care at an incredibly difficult time. Taking on this challenge is my way of giving something back and helping ensure others can benefit from their support.”
Sobell House Hospice, based in Oxford, provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care for patients and their families across Oxfordshire. The charity relies heavily on donations and community fundraising to maintain its services.
So far, Lilian and Mila have raised over £1,500 towards their fundraising goal, with donations still being accepted via their JustGiving page.
The Oxford Half Marathon will see thousands of runners take to the city’s streets, with scenic views through the historic centre and along the River Cherwell. Lilian is one of more than 300 runners in ‘Team Sobell’, each raising money to help the hospice continue its vital role in caring for people with life-limiting illnesses.
Since its founding in 1976, Sobell House Hospice has supported adults across Oxfordshire through inpatient, home, and hospital-based care, as well as bereavement services for loved ones. The hospice’s mission is to enrich the lives of patients and their families, focusing on compassion, dignity, and making every moment matter.
