A MAN is set to run a half marathon to raise funds and support a local disability charity.

Brian Rochford from Barrow will be running the Lanzarote Half Marathon on December 2 to raise money for the south Cumbria charity YouthAbility Youth Services.

The runner set himself this challenge to help the charity as 'they do a lot for disabled kids.'

Mr Rochford said: "Youth Ability is a charity with a good cause, and we know a few people involved in it.

"One of my daughters, Ellyse helps a man called Jack, and they do various activities through Youthability, such as boxing.

"Also, my other daughter Fallon has a girlfriend whose sister is disabled and attends Youthability activities and she receives lots of support from them."

The man says it gives him 'satisfaction' to set himself targets and 'to help' raise money for a local charity.

He said: "I used to run quite a lot when I was really young. I'm 54 now and because of Covid, I work from home a lot, so I started training a lot.

"I have done the Great North Run this year and last year to give myself some targets and to help charities."

The runner said he is 'excited' for the half marathon that spans across 13.1 miles on the island.

He said: "I have been practising three to four times a week. As we are six weeks away from it now, I'll start upping my training and distance."

Mr Rochford set up a GoFundMe page and has raised £30 of his £200 target.

Les Mcleese of Youthability Youth Services said: "Youthability Youth Services aims to support young people and their families in their social and emotional development on their journey to adulthood.

"As a newly formed independent charity, we rely heavily on fundraising and donations.

"Without people like Brian, we would not be able to offer this vital service to the community.  

"We are extremely grateful for the efforts of the community for the extremes they go to help raise funds for us. We wish Brian all the best in his run, and we are extremely thankful."

To help Brian Rochford raise funds for Youthability Youth Services, you can support him here.