A Reading family will begin a year of running challenges to raise money for a local children's hospice.

Seven months ago, the Simkiss family received the devastating diagnosis that their little boy Jude, who turned one in October, has a rare genetic disorder called Mitchondrial disease.

Sadly, there is no cure and it is unlikely that Jude will live past his childhood.

Jude’s family is currently supported by Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice, as well as the Lily Foundation.

The former military family, who are now settled in Reading, called on family, friends and colleagues to join them in their mission to raise as much money as possible for the charities that are supporting them, as well as raising awareness for Jude’s condition.

Team Jude’s 13 members will be taking part in a number of physical feats such as the Reading Half Marathon, London Marathon, Endure24 running challenge, Spartan Trifecta, 3 Peaks National challenge and the Great North Run.

These will equate to running a total of more than 100 miles.

Jude's father, Dale, said: "We are living every parent’s worst nightmare.

"Jude’s condition is so limiting and it is devastating to know that because there is no cure he is unlikely to live past childhood.

"It is a cruel stroke of nature that affects many children and families across the UK and in Jude’s name we are so very passionate about raising greater awareness of this condition so that in the future more will be known about mitochondrial disease and we might be closer to finding a cure.

"One of the fantastic charities supporting my family is Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service.

"It provides us, and other families like ours, with invaluable support not just for Jude but the rest of the family including his brothers and sister.

"It relies wholly on donations from the public to keep its wonderful service going and Team Jude wants to raise as much money as we can for them."

Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service provides essential support to families of children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.

Alexander Devine means different things for different families during their journeys with their extraordinary children; it may be knowing that all the clinical needs of the child are being met safely, at home or in the newly-opened, purpose-built hospice.

It may be respite, so the parent can sleep, shower or spend quality time with a sibling; it may be time for fun, play and making special memories or it may be practical and emotional support through the very difficult times when palliative and end of life care is required.

Julia Philipson, community fundraiser at Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service, said: "We are in awe of the Simkiss family and Team Jude in their determination to support us through so many running challenges this year.

"We wish them the best of luck and will be rooting for them all the way!"

To donate to Team Jude, visit their donation page and follow their progress on www.facebook.com/teamjudeomnia.