A BROTHER will run the London Marathon in memory of his ‘role model’ and older sibling who died from a genetic heart condition.

Mickey Harvey, from Churchward, is putting on his running spikes in a bid to raise £3,500 for the British Heart Foundation next year. The 32-year-old plumber will run the 26.2 mile race in honour of his beloved older brother David who died from a heart attack while serving in the British Army in March 2005.

David’s sudden death came as a shock to the family as the young drummer and keen runner lived a healthy and active lifestyle.

Tests revealed the 23-year-old had inherited condition Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) which can cause abnormal heart rhythms and weaken the heart muscle.

“David was a character, a complete joker, everyone knew him, everyone loved him. I looked up to him, he was my role model” said Mickey.

“He was fit, healthy, didn’t smoke or drink, loved running and it happened to him.

“Losing him was devastating. I couldn’t believe it, it was completely out of the blue.

“You only get tested for the condition when someone in your family dies from it. That was how we found it. There were no symptoms.”

A battery of tests revealed younger sister Tammy, now 26, had the condition and she had a pacemaker fitted.

In homage to his older brother’s love of running. Mickey decided the time was right to fundraise for the charity he owes so much to.

“I always wanted to do something for the charity. Now I feel it’s the right time.

“Not only is the British Heart Foundation raising awareness of heart conditions but it's responsible for saving my sister’s life. The help they give her is incredible. If she needs a scan, they are there for her.”

Mickey and younger brother Colin do not have the condition but further tests will be needed to determine if they are carriers of the ARVC gene.

His two young daughters Daisy, three and eight-week-old Honey were also tested for the condition at birth.

Mickey will run the race wearing a shirt with David’s name on it and be cheered on by wife Kelly, mum Lynda and David’s daughter Nevaeh, 15.

And with a successful 13 mile run behind him Mickey said he feels confident about juggling work, family life and training.

“I’m quite strong willed and determined, if I want to do something, I’ll do it,” he said.

The family have also planned a series of fundraising events to get Mickey over the line, A curry night will be held at the Bengal Square restaurant, Peatmoor on November 15.

Abba and Kylie tribute band singer Kelly will also headline a charity concert at Rodbourne Cheney’s working men’s club in Moredon on February 11 from 7pm.

To donate visit www.justgiving.com/Mickey-Harvey?utm_id=25 or to buy tickets for the events call Kelly on 07584628123